The Arinto or Pedernã grape is one of Portugal's oldest and most cherished white wine varieties, regarded for its high acidity and exceptional longevity. Found mainly in the Bucelas, Vinho Verde and Alentejo regions of Portugal, it also flourishes as Pedernã in the cooler Vinho Verde region. Though historically under-appreciated, it is now experiencing a surge of interest from wine lovers who are struck by its balance of richness and crisp freshness.
Arinto stands out due to its inherent ability to maintain its high acidity levels even in warmer, more arid climates, a trait which is uncommon among other grape varieties. This makes it highly versatile, as it adapts flawlessly to a wide range of terroirs, but it truly thrives in limestone-rich soils. It is commonly used in blends to provide freshness and minerality, though it is also commonly vinified on its own, exhibiting varietal purity and depth.
Arinto grapes offer a beautifully clear, bright yellow hue and aromas of ripe citrus and green apple. The high acidity gives the wine a refreshing, long-lasting finish. Its particularly hardy nature makes it ideal for creating wines suitable for ageing. The rich, layered character of Arinto wines, combined with their ageing potential, has helped to elevate their status among enthusiasts and the wine industry alike. When aged, the wine develops complex flavours of honey, nuts and smoke, while retaining its characteristic acidity.
It's also worth noting that Arinto is gaining recognition as a blending partner, traditionally in sparkling wines and more recently in still whites. Furthermore, it also exhibits potential in fortified wines production, adding a desirable tanginess. All in all, the Arinto/Pedernã grape represents the heart of Portuguese winemaking—robust, adaptable, and capable of producing wines with a distinctive personality that speak of their unique terroir.
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