Chamlija Alvarinho Reserve 2015
I have written about Chamlija’s Albariño twice now and will again with every new vintage they produce. This gem though is not the Albariño, but the Alvarinho Reserve. Before we talk about the wine, lets talk about the grape.
Albariño and Alvarinho are the same grape. Like Syrah and Shiraz it simply has a different name depending on location. Albariño is the Spanish name and Alvarinho the Portuguese name. Generally quite aromatic, Albariño grapes make wines that are fruity and light with lively acidity. I have yet to drink a rendition of this wine that I don’t love; especially in the heat of summer when you want a refreshing and zippy wine!
Albariño is also a perfect match for those difficult to pair foods. It goes beautifully with Indian, Thai, and other spicy foods. Because of 
its high acidity it also pairs well with creamy foods. I paired this a creamy white, pork sausage lasagna.
Chamlija Alvarinho Reserve 2015 Tasting Notes
In the glass the Alvarinho Reserve is a light gold. It is exceedingly aromatic and chock full of ripe peaches and lemon. The palate is slightly creamy giving a nod to the 10 months it spent in French oak. The peaches, citrus, and a minerality all come through. While there’s plenty of acid to fully balance the wine, there’s a full richness from the oak that rounds it out for an elegant finish.
I really thought I couldn’t possibly like a Chamlija white more than their Albariño. I was wrong. The Alvarinho Reserve is gorgeous and definitely a cut above the (still lovely) Albariño!