ARINTO (grape variety) The white grape variety most widely grown across Portugal’s regions is undoubtedly the Riesling-like Arinto, also known as Pederna in DOC Vinho Verde. It has been cultivated from north to south for centuries; its resistance to drought and heat makes this possible, and Arinto also thrives in a wide variety of soils. Near Lisbon, the grape forms the backbone of the Bucelas DOC – Portugal’s only appellation focused exclusively on Vinho Branco. According to Fernão Pires and Loureiro, Arinto ranks third among Portugal’s most widely grown white grape varieties (as of 2025).
In the glass, Arinto displays yellowish highlights; on the nose, it is like a crisp green apple, with refreshing citrus notes. The sharp acidity of its youth mellows with age, and as it matures in the cellar, subtle petrol notes develop. The fuller-bodied wines from the interior of the country can also be aged well in barriques or clay amphorae.
Wonderful with seafood and grilled fish!