Blend: 100% Alvarinho aka Albariño

From: Vinho Verde, Portugal

Nortico is from tiny vineyard plots in Moncao and Melgao, on the northern border with Spain's Galicia province - the best Alvarinho growing area in Portugal. Unlike others from the area, Nortico has no added CO2, making for a richer, fuller, well-balanced wine.

Varietal: 100% Alvarinho. Sustainably grown vines (small plots called Jardins) planted from 1910-2005 in granite soil at 20-250 m (68-820 ft) elevation.

Tasting Notes: Creamy citrus oil, lime and yellow apple notes are nicely spiced and detailed with saline mineral and floral underpinnings through the long finish. — Gillian Sciaretta

Creamy citrus oil, lime and yellow apple notes are nicely spiced and detailed with saline mineral and floral underpinnings through the long finish. This is a young, fresh white wine with the characteristic bright acidity and aromas of peach and grapefruit. Nortico is light and delicate, lovely as a "porch-sipping wine" to drink on its own.

If you’re new to Alvarinho, this wine is a great introduction. It shows off vibrant flavors that appeal to a wide audience (white peach, green pear, Meyer lemon) making it perfect for those who love zippy white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.

Pairing: This is a young, fresh white wine with the characteristic bright acidity and aromas of peach and grapefruit. At only 12.5 % alcohol, Nortico is light and delicate, lovely as a "porch-sipping wine" to drink on its own. Have it simply with corn bread and butter like country folks do in Portugal. Also a terrific seafood wine, particularly with salty, fattier dishes like fish tacos or broiled oysters. Recommended serving temperature is 50F (10C) so the citrus and fruit aromas are well present.