Most Vinho Verde wines we see in the US are light-bodied, simple and refreshing whites. The Aveleda Solos de Granito Vinho Verde is much more than that. The vines are grown in decomposed granite soils near the Atlantic coast of Portugal. The Alvarinho grape is the most noted for Vinho Verde and offers a bright, citrusy style but this wine has an added dollop of richness giving it more texture than most. The aromas of the Aveleda 2023 Solos de Granito are forward and attractive with lovely floral tones followed by a range of lemon, grapefruit, pear and apple fruits. The flavors are pure and lively, as good Vinho Verde should be, but with more depth and interest than one usually finds. The pure green apple and lemon fruit is underlain by a surprisingly rich texture plus floral, herb and spice tones. It is a lovely and refreshing white.
90 Wayne Belding
Aveleda, Vinho Verde (Portugal) Alvarinho “Solos de Granito” 2023 ($18)
By Wayne Belding
