This is the third of a many-part series aimed at learning more about the fermented grapes we all enjoy in our wine glasses.

Background and history: The top Spanish white wine, Albarino is a variety of white wine grape grown in northwest Spain and northern Portugal. Believed to be brought to Iberia by monks in the 12th Century, its name means “the white from Rhine.” It has been thought to be a Riesling clone originating from the Alsace region of France, although it should be noted that the earliest known records of Riesling as a grape variety date from the 15th, rather than the 12th, century.

Viticulture: Albarino vines grow around the trunks of poplar trees and in bushes along the margins of a field. It responds well to heat and humidity.

So what does it taste like? Noted for its distinct apricot and peach aromas, Albarino is very similar to that of Viognier, Gewurztraminer and Petit Manseng. The nose can also contain lime, vanilla, honey, and kiwi, while the delicious flavors usually range from almond/vanilla to ginger/spice. The wine is unusually light and generally high in acidity. Pair it with seafood and drink it young!

Recommended brands: As Laxas, Bodega Morgadio, Bodegas Salnesur, Burgans, Lagar de Cervera, Lusco do Mino, Mar de Frades, Pazo de Senorans, Pazo San Mauro, Terras Gauda, Vionta.

Also called: Albarina, Alvarin Blanco, Alvarinha, Alvarinho, Azal Blanco, Galego, Galeguinho.