From: Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal
Varietal: 100% Alvarinho
Taste: Creamy citrus oil, lime, and yellow apple notes are nicely spiced and detailed, with saline mineral and floral underpinnings throughout 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 independently. If you’re new to Alvarinho, this wine is a great introduction. It shows off vibrant flavors that appeal to a broad audience (white peach, green pear, Meyer lemon), making it perfect for those who love zippy white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.
Pairing: Alvarinho is the world’s most versatile food wine! Nortico is always great with fish (ceviche, sushi, Baja-style fish tacos) and shellfish (mussels, clams, oysters). Nortico even tames the intense flavors and spice of Thai and other southeast Asian cuisines.
About: Ask anyone for the best Alvarinho in Portugal and people will point to the extreme north to the sub-region of Moncao and Melgao, right on the border with Spain. Nortico Alvarinho is a superb example of the grapes hallmarks: fresh citrus, peach and tropical fruit aromas paired with clean, juicy fruit and vibrant minerality.
Nortico is produced on the south bank of the Minho River in plots so small they are called "Jardins", gardens in Portuguese. Soils here are granite and schist, and although it rains a lot (2,000 ml annually) the inland area is a little warmer than the coastal plantings allowing for a perfect maturation.
