2021 El Persa Portugal Albariño

In that area, one of the leading grape varieties is Albariño, known for making fresh, aromatic wines. Albariño also is high in acidity, which makes it a favorite among locals for drinking with the fresh seafood that’s brought in daily. There’s even a marine characteristic that shows itself in some bottlings of Albariño — a very slight salinity, which opens up an even wider variety of food for pairing possibilities.

In Portugal Albariño often is labeled as Alvarinho, although El Persa opts for the historic name from Spain which is more familiar to consumers both in Europe and here in the States.

Crafted for early consumption — no need to lay it down for years before opening — the 2021 Persa Albariño is fresh, fruity and mildly grassy, with just a hint of that characteristic salinity. It’s a terrific wine by any name.