Vinho Verde DOC is a white wine denomination from the extreme north-west of mainland Portugal, the country’s largest, with an area of ​​21,000 hectares across the continental northwest. Vineyards are divided into thousands of small parcels, sometimes little bigger than small backyards. The region is bounded to the north by the river Minho, extending along the Atlantic coast to the city of Porto, and to the south to the banks of the river Vouga.

Terroir: The region is marked by an extreme Atlantic influence, in a green and humid landscape, with cool temperatures and abundant rainfall. The vineyards are concentrated along the main river valleys. The soils are homogeneous and mostly granitic, fertile to very fertile, with high acidity.

Sub-regions: The appellation is divided into nine distinct sub-regions, Monção and Melgaço, Lima, Basto, Cávado, Ave, Amarante, Baião, Sousa and Paiva. Monção and Melgaço is the most unique of the sub-regions, the only one that is protected from the direct Atlantic influence, has a maritime and continental influence climate, with fuller-bodied wines and higher alcoholic strengths.

Viticulture: Vines are trained to the Barra, Cruzeta (‘passing through the cross’) or Latada (pergola) systems.

Main grape varieties: The dominant white grape varieties are Alvarinho, Arinto (locally known as Pedernã), Avesso, Azal, Loureiro and Trajadura, while the red grapes are Borraçal, Brancelho, Espadeiro and Vinhão.

Wine styles: White wines are especially aromatic, clear and refreshing. Since 1999, the region has also produced sparkling wines, advertising itself as one of the most promising places for quality sparkling wines.

Wineries

Certified Biodynamic: Aphros.

Bibliography

Oxford Companion to Wine 4th edition ed. Jancis Robinson MW and Julia Harding MW (Oxford University Press, 2015).

Wines of Portugal