Vinho Verde is perhaps best known for its white wines, which make up 85% of production. Historically, winemakers bottled the wines as quickly as possible in order to get the first bottles of the vintage out after harvest. This meant that there was often a second fermentation inside of the bottle, allowing for a zippy, slightly sparkling, ‘effervescent’ style that symbolises many of Vinho Verde’s wines.

Most are a blend of six native grape varieties: Alvarinho, Arinto, Azal, Avesso, Loureiro and Trajadura. They’re dry, low in alcohol and best tasted young to get the most out of the stone fruit flavours. If you’re a fan of Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, you’ll like these! The most compelx of Vinho Verdes are often a blend of Alvarinho and Loureiro: expect mineral wines with lovely tropical, peach and lemon aromas. Single varietals of these also usually age longer than other Vinho Verdes.

Vinho Verde’s lesser known, and still excellent production in red wines will also feature on your Grape Escape to the region. These are usually produced from the local grape Vinhão, Sousão, and offers a similar style to Malbec, with notes of plum, pepper and sour cherry, and lower alcohol levels. They can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Image credits: Comissão de Viticultura da Região dos Vinhos Verdes, Quinta de Santa Teresa AD Wines