Alvarinho, Azevedo, Vinho Verde Loureiro/Alvarinho, Portugal

An aromatic wine (Alvarinho is Albariño) but still zesty while being slightly more sweeter than a Sauvignon Blanc.

Matthew Jukes, MoneyWeek.
Wine of the Week
Quinta de Azevedo, which features its historic tower on all its labels, dates back to the 12th century, and this property, situated near the Cávado River in the beautiful Minho region, has made its most delicious estate Vinhos Verdes to date.  Made from a blend of 70% Loureiro and 30% Alvarinho, it sings with striking granite and cleansing schist mineral tones, crisp citrus and faint stone fruit notes and mouth-watering sea spray freshness.

Julia Harding MW for Jancis Robinson

16 points
Fragrant with lemon and lime as well as softer peach notes and that pear-drop aroma that seems common in all sorts of young whites. Good fruit intensity for a wine of 12%, highlighted by that tiny bit of residual sugar. Has all the freshness of traditional Vinho Verdeblend and packs a lot of fruit. Rounded and gentle in the mouth then a reviving freshness on the finish. Avoids the sweet/sour effect of acid/sugar contrast.

1. International Wine Challenge (2022 Vintage, Trophy Winner):
   "A premium blend (70% Loureiro/30% Alvarinho) with vibrant citrus, nectarine, and lime blossom notes. Crisp acidity and lees-stirred texture create a balanced, refreshing finish."[90/100]

2. Vinho Grandes Escolhas (2023 Vintage):
   "Intense aromas of citrus and bay leaf, with tropical fruit undertones. Full-bodied yet vibrant, showcasing Vinho Verde’s signature freshness." [16.5/20 (88/100 equivalent)]

3. Wine-Searcher (Aggregate Critic Score, 2022 Vintage):
   "Tropical and balanced, with passionfruit, mango, and grapefruit zest. A crowd-pleasing style with lively acidity." [88/100]