Wines from the Region

Douro wines are already recognized worldwide, not only Porto, but also table wines, which are increasingly appreciated. In the Douro, the breadth of wine is extensive, there is always a correspondence to the personal tastes of each one.

The best-known drink in the Douro is the famous Port of Oporto, full bodied and sweet, with a high alcohol content (usually between 19 and 22% vol.). This wine acquires unique properties, not only due to the natural conditions such as the climate and the area where the fruit is grown, but also thanks to its manufacturing process. The fermentation of the must (unfermented grape juice) is stopped to add grape brandy. It is this interruption of fermentation that conditions the sweetness of wine.

Douro wines are divided into three main categories: Red, White and Rosé wines. The former are mostly produced from various varieties, with Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Aragonez), Tinta Barroca and Tinto Cão, the most expressive. The young Reds, consumed in the first years after the vintage, are distinguished by the ruby ​​color and the fruity aroma. They should be served between 13 and 15 ° C, with light meals based on meat or pasta. The Guard Tannins, marked on the label as "Reserve" or "Great Reserve", have a more intense color and aroma. They are served between 16 and 18 ° C, accompanying dishes of red meat, with strong condiments, or dishes of game meat, if they are aged.

White wines are the ideal drink to accompany fish dishes. They come from castes like Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, Gouveio and Rabigato. The youngest, consumed at temperatures between 8 and 10 ° C, are refreshing wines with light colors and fruity aromas. The Guardian Whites present a more golden color and more roasted aromas, acquired by the time of fermentation in wood. They should be served at about 12 ° C, accompanying thicker fish, such as salmon and cod, or white meats such as chicken and rabbit. Like the Reds of guard, they are also marked on the label with the designation "Reserve" or "Great Reserve".

Rosé wines are recent in Douro production, therefore, there are fewer. As the name implies are wines with rosy colors, with fruity aromas, mixing the sweetness with the acidity. They should be consumed one to two years after harvest, at temperatures between 10 and 12 ° C. Accompany well light meals, or simply as an appetizer.

On the Douro slopes, Moscatel, Douro Sparkling Wine (VEQPRD), new wine (wine from the last vintage) and the Late Harvest, produced with grapes harvested after the harvest season, are also produced.