The Minho region is made up of six different growing areas. Vinho Verde makes strong red wines as well as white wine, that is light, dry, and pearly.
Though the English preferred strong red wines to the whites amde in Portugal, Vinho Verde was brought to England in large quantities back in the 17th century. The majority of the wine turned to vinegar before it could be drunk
The six growing areas of the DOC Vinho Verde were appointed in 1908. They are Monacao, Lima, Braga, Penafiel, Basto, and Amarante. The summer is dry and hot in this northern region of Portugal. The winters are mild and humid. The vines grow on granite-ground.
The white variety of the Vinho Verde is light, dry, and pearly. This clean wine is especially known from Monacao. Here it is made from the Alvarinho grape. The red Vinho Verde is fermented on the free mash, and is so a bit stronger than the white wine. Rosé wines are made as well. The vines used Alvarinho, Azal Branco, Esganoso, Loureiro, Rabigate, and Trajadura for the white wines. Red wines are made from Azal, Borracal, Padeiro, and Vinhao.
Winery (selected) from Wine country Rios do Minho (Vinho Verde)
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