WINES FROM MINHO

WINES FROM MINHO

This region is south of the River Minho - on the border with Spain - approximately 90km in land, from the Atlantic Ocean and mostly north of the River Douro.

It is the largest wine region and is divided into nine sub-regions.

The influence of the Atlantic causes a large rainfall (1500mm / year). In spite of everything, the climate is mild during the summer and it is common to rain at this time of the year.

The soils are extremely acidic and consist mainly of granite, with the exception of two small strips that cross from northwest to south-east, one of "gravestone" and the other of schist.

Vinho Verde, it is a unique wine in the world and what distinguishes it is the fact that it is produced in a demarcated region that includes the territory of the northwest of Portugal.

Vinho Verde is naturally light and fresh, this Portuguese wine is the second most exported, after Port wine.

Grape White varieties: Alvarinho, Arinto, Loureiro, Azal, Trajadura, Avesso.

FOOD & WINE PAIRING

The vast majority of wines produced in Vinho Verde are white. Wines that have a relatively clear colour, natural acidity, and floral and fruity aromas.

Although these wines are not formally classified as sparkling wines, they are slightly sparkling. The tasting notes of Vinho Verde are of lime, grapefruit, lemonade, white melon, and gooseberries.

Monção and Melgaço sub-regions produce fuller flavoured wines. These wines also have higher levels of alcohol than other types of vinhoverde.

Fresh, young Vinho Verdes goes best with fresh, young cheeses, especially the goaty kind.

Some Vinho Verde from special vineyards or old vines have enough substance to withstand a few years of aging or to take on a buttery cow’s milk cheese.

Due to their high acidity and saline flavours, these wines also do well with salty cheeses.

Because it is a light wine, discreet, acid, and very refreshing it is perfect for the soft flavours of sushi.

Wines from Minho