Albariño vs Assyrtiko
Albariño
A high-acid Galician white with peach and citrus and a faint saline grip, and the grape behind Rías Baixas.
- Peach
- High acidity
- Saline grip
Recognize it
High acidity in a light body, with peach, citrus, and a saline note. A faint grip on the finish is common. Lees-aged bottlings can feel broader.
Assyrtiko
A high-acid Greek white of lemon and salt with unusual weight for its freshness, and the grape of Santorini.
- Lemon
- High acidity
- Saline
Recognize it
High acidity, medium body, and noticeable alcohol give Assyrtiko more weight than many crisp coastal whites. Lemon and a salty note are common.
How they compare
- SimilarHigh acidity and citrus.
- DifferenceAssyrtiko is usually fuller, higher in alcohol and more austere; Albariño is lighter and more stone-fruited.