Azores Wine Company, Pico Arinto dos Açores

The Azores Wine Company Arinto dos Açores is a distinctive white wine from Portugal's Pico Island, crafted exclusively from the indigenous Arinto dos Açores grape variety. Unlike the mainland's Arinto, this unique varietal has evolved to thrive in Pico's challenging conditions.

The vineyards are situated on volcanic basalt soils, with vines planted in cracks of the rock, some as close as 100 feet from the Atlantic Ocean. To shield the vines from relentless salty winds, they are cultivated in small plots surrounded by hand-built stone walls known as "currais."

In the glass, the nose offers fresh, pure, and mineral aromas with a touch of grapefruit. On the palate, it is sharp and mineral-driven, with saline notes that tease the palate, reflecting its oceanic origin.

The Arinto dos Açores pairs beautifully with seafood, including grilled whole fish, oysters, mussels, and shrimp, owing to its salinity and minerality.

This wine exemplifies the Azores Wine Company's dedication to reviving indigenous grape varieties and showcasing the unique terroir of the Azores archipelago.