Soalheiro Alvarinho

Vinho Verde, Portugal

Portugal's most celebrated Alvarinho from Melgaço's granite hillsides — aromatic, mineral, and surprisingly age-worthy for a 'green wine'. White peach, lime blossom, grapefruit, granite mineral, and the distinctive saline freshness of the Atlantic-influenced Minho. More complex and structured than Spanish Albariño.

Pairing intelligence

• main: Portugal's most beloved dish and Portugal's finest white — Alvarinho's citrus and mineral character cuts through the salt cod's richness; olive bridges the wine's saline character
• aperitif: Minho coast seafood and Minho Alvarinho — the wine's mineral freshness and citrus character mirrors the cockle's brine; the wine is the natural partner for small shellfish