The Many Faces of Arinto

One grape, different wines

Arinto is one of Portugal’s most important white grape varieties. It is grown across the country, from the cooler, Atlantic-influenced regions of the north and west to the much warmer vineyards of the Alentejo.

What makes Arinto particularly interesting is its ability to retain its natural acidity even in warm climates. But that doesn’t mean it tastes the same everywhere.

During this tasting, we’ll explore seven different Arinto wines to discover how climate, region and winemaking can change the expression of the same grape.

From cool and crisp to ripe and full

In cooler regions, Arinto can produce lean, fresh wines with high acidity, citrus fruit and mineral character. Bucelas, just north of Lisbon, is the historic origine and is particularly famous for elegant, age-worthy Arinto. Move south to the warmer Alentejo and the picture changes, wines can become fuller and riper, with more generous fruit and tropical aromas, while Arinto’s naturally high acidity helps them retain freshness and balance.

And climate is only part of the story.

We’ll also explore how winemaking choices change Arinto in the glass. Expect different styles, including sparkling wine, oak-aged examples and blends where Arinto works alongside varieties such as Antão Vaz. By tasting the wines side by side, we’ll look at the influence of climate, soil, blending and winemaking and discover why Arinto is such an important and versatile Portuguese grape.

What’s included:

• 7 Portuguese wines

• Selection of vegetarian bites

• Tasting handout with information about the wines

The tasting is guided and informal, with plenty of opportunity to compare the wines, ask questions and discuss what you find in your glass. Max 15 people.

Book your place and discover the many faces of Arinto.