White grape · also Albariño
The noble white of Monção & Melgaço.
Aromas
Peach, citrus blossom, lime, saline mineral
Structure
Vibrant acidity, textured mid-palate
Ageing
5–15 years in top examples
Grown on granite along the Minho river, Alvarinho is Portugal's most prized aromatic white. In Monção and Melgaço it reaches an intensity and ageing potential far beyond typical Vinho Verde.
Single-variety whites, lees-aged and barrel-fermented reserves, sparkling.
Oysters, grilled shellfish, sushi, bacalhau.
Vinho Verde · Monção & Melgaço
Melgaço · Est. 1974
Pioneers of Melgaço Alvarinho — the first planted in the sub-region; mineral, precise and long-ageing.
Vinho Verde · Monção & Melgaço
Monção · Est. 1806
A neoclassical palace and national monument whose Alvarinho was among the first to earn international acclaim.
Vinho Verde · Monção & Melgaço
Melgaço · Est. 1998
'Mr Alvarinho' — the winemaker who proved Monção & Melgaço Alvarinho can age like great white Burgundy.
Vinho Verde · Monção & Melgaço
Penafiel · Est. 1671
A romantic family manor with follies, ponds and garden pavilions, guardian of five centuries of Vinho Verde tradition.