Heinen’s Road Less Traveled: Discover the Wines of Portugal
The wines of Portugal have become increasingly popular in the United state over the last decade, and for good reason!
Portugal produces an extremely wide variety of wines made primarily from grapes indigenous to the Iberian Peninsula. With a varied climate, this region is ideal for producing crisp, clean white wines, perfect for patio sipping and pairing with light seafood, as well as powerful, dark red wines that pair well with roasted and grilled meats.
Portugal Varietals
A combination of old-world winemaking techniques blended with a little new-world know-how, Portuguese wines are authentic, special, and arguably some of the strongest values on the planet! Discover the growing regions and unique grape varietals that call Portugal home and visit the Road Less Traveled section of your local Heinen’s Wine Department to taste them for yourself!
Vinho Verde
Often confused for a grape variety, this is actually a growing region in Portugal. Located on the Northern Atlantic coast, it famously produces some of the freshest white wines in the world made with traditional, local grape varietals such as Alvarinho, Loureiro, Arinto, and Trajadura. While those may be hard to remember, it’s easy to focus on the incredible drinkability of the crisp, refreshing wine coming out of this region. Due to the coastal influence of the Atlantic and high winds, these wines are naturally high in acid and lower in alcohol. They oftentimes have just a tickle of effervescence and are created to be consumed fresh and young.
Excellent with light seafood, shellfish, and summer salads, these are also an incredible cocktail wine. If you are a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, give Vinho Verde a try!
Lisboa
Named after the port town of Lisbon, this region is also heavily influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The cool air and strong winds from the coast combined with the hot afternoons of inland Portugal, create just the right climate for producing wines of fresh and fruity character.
Predominantly reds, wines from Lisboa are not complicated. Generally, they see very little oak aging, and are designed to be consumed young, when they are at their freshest. “Branco” is the name for white wine produced in this region, whereas “tinto” is the term for the reds. Native and indigenous grapes such as Touriga Nacional, Arrognez, and Touriga Franca are the most used varietals.
For under $15, these wines offer so much enjoyment and overdeliver in flavor and style. Pop a bottle of Lisboa wine with a summer barbecue, with your favorite charcuterie board, or with some simple cheeses. They are fresh, fruity, uncomplicated, and they leave you wanting a second glass.
Duoro & Porto
Located just east of Vinho Verde, the Duoro is a massive valley. The slopes of the valley are home to extremely steep and terraced vineyards, making cultivation difficult. The Douro uses Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tina Roriz (also known by its Spanish name, Tempranillo) grape varietals to make red wines of deep intensity and color. The dry reds age well, making them perfect for bold red wine drinkers.
These same grapes are also used to make this region’s famous fortified Port wines. Brandy is added to fermenting wine, resulting in a stronger wine that retains some residual sugar, thus producing port. These are powerful and sweet and can age for decades. We recommend pairing them with desserts and cheese for a rich treat.
Alentejo
Just east of Lisbon sits the rolling hills of the Alentejo. A typical Mediterranean climate, this area is prone to long periods without rain, which can produce wines of stronger intensity and concentration.
The native grapes to this region are Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, and Tinta Roriz. They produce wines of significant depth that are rich, full-bodied, and perfect for the Cabernet lover.
There is a combination of oak aging, fermenting, and aging in clay vessels or amphorae in this region. This practice dates back to BC with the Romans and is one of the most traditional winemaking techniques that exists today. A massive growing region, Alentejo is also home to most of the cork trees that are grown in Portugal, which supply over 90% of the world’s cork supply.
Try the Wines of Portugal Today
Portugal has become the new “holiday” destination for Europeans and Americans alike. The value they offer to experience their culture and their wines is unparalleled. The styles of wine they produce range from the simple and fruity to complex and age-worthy, ready for cellaring. A winning combination of techniques has vaulted Portugal into one of the premier growing regions of the world. Discover the authentic wines and styles of an amazing, historical wine region on this stop of Heinen’s wine journey along the Road Less Traveled.
