Meet Albariňo (pronounced Al-ba-REEN-yo) – the most fashionable white grape in Spain.

This thick-skinned, white grape is capable of many things – though it is most popularly known as a light and zesty white wine full of minerals and a slight effervescence. When fully ripe, the grape gives strong flavors of apricot and peach, and a more substantial feel.

In Spain, the grape is most commonly grown in Rias Baixas DO; in Portugal, under the title Alvarinho (Al-va-REEN-yo), it is most commonly grown in Vinho Verde DO. Many other parts of the world such as Australia and California have also started producing unique expressions of Albariňo themselves. This grape has an endearing way of capturing the flavors of its environment; call it terroir.

Albariňo is a high acid grape that can be enjoyed on its own or with foods such as salads, shellfish, vegetables or light chicken dishes.

As always, the proof is in the bottle. Wines to try:

Pazo San Mauro Albariňo 2010 – $18.99
Pazo San Mauro
“Honest” style, typical of the region full of minerality, stone fruits and with a distinct crispness.

Mar de Frades Albariňo 2010 -$24.99
Bodegas Mar de Frades
Full of minerality and zesty fruits – white peaches – a distinct salinity that would be great with oysters.

Fefiňanes Albariňo 2010 – $22.99
Bodegas dl Palacio de Fefiňanes
Coming from the oldest estate in Rias Baixas, this wine full of minerality and a full mouth of fruit that defies the ‘light and fruity’ standard.