ArintoPortugal's crisp answer to white wine lovers seeking vibrant acidity and age-worthiness.

Arinto is one of Portugal's most treasured indigenous white grape varieties, with documented cultivation dating back centuries. Its name likely derives from the Portuguese word for "little kernel," referencing its small, thick-skinned berries. This ancient variety thrives throughout Portugal, particularly excelling in the Bucelas and Vinho Verde regions north of Lisbon, where it produces some of the country's most elegant white wines.

What makes Arinto truly special is its remarkable ability to retain bright, mouthwatering acidity even in Portugal's warm climate—a rare trait that gives the wines exceptional freshness and aging potential. While many Portuguese whites are meant for immediate consumption, quality Arinto can evolve beautifully over 5-10 years, developing honeyed complexity while maintaining its signature zing. It's increasingly winning international recognition as wine lovers discover Portugal's hidden white wine treasures.

How to recognize this grape variety?

Arinto presents a beautifully focused aromatic profile featuring citrus blossoms, lemon zest, green apple, and white peach, often with subtle mineral or saline notes reminiscent of ocean spray. On the palate, it delivers crisp, laser-like acidity that makes your mouth water—think of biting into a perfectly ripe Granny Smith apple. The texture is typically light to medium-bodied with a clean, refreshing finish that seems to go on forever.

This vibrant acidity makes Arinto an outstanding food wine, particularly with seafood. It's spectacular alongside grilled sardines, octopus salad, ceviche, or shellfish. The wine's brightness cuts through richer preparations like seafood in butter sauce or creamy risotto, while complementing lighter fare like green salads with citrus vinaigrette or fresh goat cheese.

Arinto production around the world

Here's the list of the top 3 producers of Arinto worldwide.

Portugal

PortugalBucelas, Vinho Verde, Alentejo, Tejo, Bairrada, Douro, Ribatejo

5 778 ha
Spain

SpainGalicia

2 ha
Australia

AustraliaVictoria

1 ha

Grape variety fact sheet

Portugal - Flag

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Portugal

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