Green Wine

The Vinho Verde region is a demarcated area in the northwest of Portugal, characterized by its cool, rainy climate and fertile soils, ideal for growing a variety of grape types.

Sub-regions and Their Specialties:

The region is divided into nine sub-regions, each with its own specialties:

• Monção e Melgaço: Known for high-quality Alvarinho wines.
• Lima: Famous for Loureiro grapes.
• Cávado and Ave: Produce a variety of styles from different grapes.
• Sousa, Amarante, Basto, and Paiva: Known for blending different local varieties.

Vinho Verde wines are typically light-bodied with high acidity and a slight effervescence. Common flavors include citrus fruits, green apple, and sometimes tropical notes.

Expect fresh, vibrant aromas of lime, lemon, green apple, and floral hints, with some mineral undertones.

Many Vinho Verde wines have a natural spritz, adding to their refreshing quality.

Traditional Portuguese Pairings: Vinho Verde pairs wonderfully with Portuguese dishes like grilled sardines, bacalhau (salt cod), and seafood rice.

International Cuisine Matches: It also complements international cuisines such as sushi, ceviche, salads, and light pasta dishes.

White Varieties:

• Alvarinho: Renowned for its aromatic intensity and complex flavors.
• Loureiro: Offers floral and citrus notes, with a fresh, crisp profile.
• Trajadura: Adds body and tropical fruit flavors to blends.

Red Varieties:

• Vinhão: Produces deeply colored, full-bodied red wines with high acidity.
• Borraçal: Known for its robust structure and dark fruit flavors.
• Espadeiro: Lighter and more aromatic, often used in rosé production.

White Vinho Verde: Light and refreshing, often with citrus and green apple notes, and a slight spritz.

Red Vinho Verde: Deeply colored, tangy, and earthy, with flavors of dark berries and a rustic charm.

Rosé Vinho Verde: Fruity and aromatic, with a crisp, refreshing acidity and a hint of effervescence.

Sparkling Vinho Verde: Effervescent and lively, with bright acidity and flavors ranging from citrus to tropical fruits.

Alvarinho, Vinho Verde’s distinguished grape, prized for its crisp acidity, lively citrus, peach, and mineral undertones sourced from Monção and Melgaço. Enjoy its versatility with seafood or on sunny days

Discover Soalheiro, Anselmo Mendes and Vale dos Ares, renowned for their distinct Vinho Verde styles.

Serve Vinho Verde well-chilled, between 45-50°F (7-10°C), to enhance its crisp, refreshing qualities.

Look for key information on the label such as the grape variety, sub-region, and vintage. Terms like “Alvarinho” and “Loureiro” indicate the type of white wine, while “Vinhão” points to red Vinho Verde.

Vinho Verde is best enjoyed young, within a year or two of its release, to capture its fresh and vibrant character.