Nortico Alvarinho, Minho, Portugal

The 2023 Nortico Alvarinho captures the pure coastal spirit of northern Portugal, delivering a crisp and vibrant white wine that reflects both tradition and terroir. Produced from sustainably farmed old vines in Monção and Melgaço, this wine pays tribute to the region’s artisanal heritage while showcasing the brilliance of the Alvarinho grape. With freshness, minerality, and balance at its core, Nortico is a compelling introduction to Portugal’s most celebrated white varietal.

Product Details:

• Winemaker & Owner: Alberto Orte
• Varietal: 100% Alvarinho (Albariño)
• Farming: Sustainable
• Soil: Granite soils at 20–250 m (68–820 ft) elevation
• Climate: Protected by surrounding hills; cold, rainy winters and hot, dry summers with alternating warm days and cool nights during ripening
• Vinification: Grapes hand-selected; lengthy cool fermentation in stainless steel; racking, primary filtration, and cold stabilization
• Aging: Four months in stainless steel; bottled February 2024
• Alcohol: 13%
• Residual Sugar / Style: Dry
• Allergy Advice: Contains sulphites

Sensory Description:

Bright straw-yellow in the glass, the 2023 Nortico Alvarinho bursts with aromas of lemon, lime, green apple, and orange blossom, accented by a saline sea-spray character. On the palate, flavors of peach, ruby grapefruit, and creamy citrus oil are layered with floral and mineral undertones. Zesty acidity keeps the wine vibrant and focused, while the finish is long, clean, and refreshing, marked by hints of lime zest and stone minerality.

Awards & Accolades:

• 2023 vintage tasting note (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.”

Winemaker's Background:

Nortico Alvarinho is a project devoted to honoring the artisans of northern Portugal, both grape growers and the region’s famed tile makers. The vineyards are planted near the Minho River in Monção and Melgaço, widely regarded as the best area for Alvarinho. Here, more than 100 small vineyard plots contribute fruit to the blend, all benefiting from the Atlantic influence and granite-rich soils. The label itself echoes the hand-painted azulejos that decorate buildings throughout the region. Winemaker Alberto Orte crafts Nortico with minimal intervention, preserving the authentic, farm-to-table identity of these wines.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at 50°F (10°C). This Alvarinho pairs beautifully with seafood such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, and ceviche, as well as crudo, fruit salads, and grilled vegetables. Its crisp citrus character also complements tangy cheeses and Mediterranean dishes. Ideal for warm days on the porch or as an aperitif before dinner.

The 2023 Nortico Alvarinho is a refreshing and expressive wine that captures the best of Monção and Melgaço’s terroir, offering bright fruit, lively acidity, and saline minerality in every glass.