Unveiling The Colors Of Vinhos Verdes DO
Read between the wines and be swept away by the colors of Vinhos Verdes
Vinhos Verdes is a multifaceted term, it represents the many grape varieties, the multitude of styles of wine and its gastronomic representation. It also translates to a light spritz of a young green wine and adored as a summer libation but it goes well beyond that.
Vinhos Verdes isn't a grape, it's a place. The region’s is located in the northwest corner of Portugal with the Atlantic to the west, mountains to the east, the Douro River to the south and the border of Spain in the north. At an average altitude of 700 meters, ocation, climate, soil type and location play an important role in the various styles of wines. The influence of the ocean, the predominantly granitic soils, the mild climate, and the frequent rain are evident in the quality and elegance of the wines of this region.
Portugal’s largest demarcated wine region, is further divided into nine distinct sub-regions Monção e Melgaço, Lima, Basto, Cávado, Ave, Amarante, Baião, Sousa and Paiva. As a whole, Vinhos Verdes DO is known for its lush green hills, rolling vineyards, and cool, damp climate as well granite rich soils. Delve into each sub-region and you will find varying microclimates and soil types influencing the type of wine produced. For example, Basto is located further inland with a more continental climate with some clay and schist soils in addition to granite. Thus wines produced here are higher in alcohol and have lower acidity than those from the coastal sub-regions.
A Land of Many Grapes/Sub-regional Specialties. The climate and soil types are ideal for growing the indigenous grape varieties that are used to make the variety of styles of wines found in this region. You will find forty five grape varietals in this region. The indigenous grapes are deeply rooted to history and tradition which greatly shape the unique sub-regions of this DO. The permitted grapes for white wines are Alvarinho, Arinto (Pedernã), Avesso, Azal, Batoca (Alvaraça), Loureiro, Trajadura (Treixadura). The permitted grapes for red and rosé Alvarelhão (Brancelho), Amaral, Borraçal, Espadeiro , Padeiro, Pedral, Rabo-de-Anho and Vinhão. This allows for an immense amount of flexibility and creativity for the winemaker while maintain a unique identity, like a mad scientist in a science lab creating new and exciting wines constantly.
Beyond White… While known for its refreshing spritz wines, Vinhos Verdes DO also produces rosé, single varietal whites, red and sparkling.
White Wines: you can find two styles of white wines in this DO - a cheery light-bodied white blend with with a touch of spritz and bright acidity or a single varietal expression. For example Azal and Loureiro offer refreshing options bursting with aromas and elegance. For a bolder experience, explore Avesso's intense and full-bodied whites. And for wines with depth and structure, delve into the world of Alvarinho.
Red Wines: While less common than white wines, Vinhos verdes also produces red wines made from grape varieties such as Vinhão, Espadeiro, and Brancelho. These wines are typically light-bodied and fruity, with high acidity. Rosé Wines: Rosé wines from Vinhos verdes are also becoming increasingly popular. They are made only from red grapes but vinified like a white wine.
Sparkling: Some Vinhos verdes wines are also lightly sparkling, thanks to a second fermentation in the bottle. These wines are known as "Espumante" and offer a refreshing and festive option.
More than Green - Sustainability: The region has a long history of using some techniques that are now considered sustainable, like cover crops and minimal intervention winemaking. In addition to the traditional vineyard management techniques like using trees to support vines, can actually encourage biodiversity. Many wineries are converting their vineyards to organic farming reducing the use of pesticides and herbicides.
Gastronomic Versatility: The many faces of Vinhos Verdes permits such versatility when it comes to food and wine pairing. The bright acidity cuts through rich flavors, making them a great choice for:
-Seafood and Shellfish: The bright acidity of the white and rosé cuts through the richness of seafood, making it a perfect pairing for dishes like grilled sardines, mussels in white wine sauce, lobster roll, shrimp scampi.
-Salads: The acidity helps to enhance the flavors of fresh greens and vegetables in a salad. Try pairing it with a goat cheese salad, a Caprese salad, or a salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
-Spicy food: The acidity can help to tame the heat of spicy foods. Try it with Thai curry, Szechuan chicken, or a spicy sausage dish.
-Sushi: The light and refreshing qualities of Vinhos Verdes complement the delicate flavors of sushi.
-Goat Cheese: The creaminess of goat cheese goes well with the acidity of Vinhos Verdes.
-Lighter Meats: Vinhos verdes can also be paired with lighter meats like chicken or pork.
Vinhos Verdes sheds its simplistic reputation as a single summer drink. It's a diverse region boasting a kaleidoscope of grape varietals, styles, and sub-regions. From the crisp, light-bodied white blends to the single-varietal expressions with depth and structure, Vinhos Verdes offers a surprising range. Its versatility extends beyond the glass, with food pairings that include everything from light meats and salads to spicy dishes and creamy cheeses. With a focus on sustainability and a dedication to preserving its unique identity, Vinhos Verdes is a region on the rise, ready to surprise and delight wine lovers worldwide.
Dive in to the multifarious styles of Vinhos Verdes following @vinhoverdewines on Instagram and link to the Vinhos Verdes website.
Link to my Vinhos Verdes DO reel on Instagram
