albariza, a local, Andalusian term for the white, chalky-looking soil typical of parts of the jerez region in southern Spain. Grapes grown on this soil type produce some of the finest fino and manzanilla sherries. The soil has a high limestone content, about 40%, the remainder being clay and sand. It appears dazzling white in summer, and has the characteristic of drying without caking, slowly releasing moisture to the vines during the growing season. This soil type is also present in the penedès region of north east Spain, where some of the best Spanish sparkling wine is produced (see cava).
