VINHO VERDE
With around 34,000 hectares spread over an extensive area in the north of Portugal, the Vinho Verde wine region is the largest in Portugal. It is rich in water resources, with mild temperatures that are very suitable for producing balanced wines. Its maritime climate and fertile granite soils produce excellent, refreshing wines.
In this region we have vineyards on two properties, totalling 49 hectares:
The Vinho Verde region is one of Portugal’s most iconic and distinctive wine-growing areas, located in the north-west of the country, in the heart of the region known as Minho. This is Portugal’s largest demarcated region and also one of the oldest, with a wine history dating back to Roman times. Vinho Verde is unique in the world and is known for its lightness, freshness and vibrant characteristics that capture the essence of the region’s verdant landscape.
The climate in the Vinho Verde region is strongly influenced by the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean, with mild, rainy winters and relatively cool summers. The abundant rainfall and high humidity provide a favourable environment for growing vines, which are traditionally grown on pergolas or trellises, keeping the grapes away from the damp soil. Modern vineyards are planted in cordon, thus enabling for more precise viticultural control. The name ‘Vinho Verde’ does not refer to the colour of the wines, but rather to the youth and freshness with which they are consumed, usually shortly after harvest.
The Vinho Verde region is mainly known for its white wines, which account for around 85 per cent of the region’s total production. The most emblematic white grape varieties include Alvarinho, Loureiro, Arinto (known locally as Pedernã), Trajadura, Avesso and Azal. These wines are generally light, low in alcohol and have a lively acidity that makes them extremely refreshing. A great number of entry level wines have a slight touch of effervescence, known as ‘needle’, which further accentuates the sensation of freshness. The best wines of the region are now made in a more concentrated style, without effervescence and can have ageing potential.
One of the most notable sub-regions within Vinho Verde is the sub-region of Monção and Melgaço, recognised for producing high-quality Alvarinho wines. These wines are generally more structured and usually have the best ageing potential, with an amplified aromatic characteristic.
