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Portugal, a wine country, and its white wines

Portugal, a wine country, stretches from the mountainous north through gently rolling landscapes and cork oak forests in the center of the country to the beaches of the Algarve. The grapes grow in the stormy climate of the Atlantic coast, in the lush green north, or in the Mediterranean climate on the Mediterranean Sea. They thrive on sand, slate, or granite—perfect conditions for a whole range of diverse and unique white wines. White wine is mainly made from four grape varieties: Alvarinho, Arinto/Pedernã, Encruzado, and Fernão Pires/Maria Gomes.

Alvarinho – A noble variety with a mineral body

Alvarinho is an old grape variety. This noble variety is the basis for full-bodied, mineral white wines, which are mainly grown in northern Portugal. It is found in the northwestern Vinho Verde region and in the subregions of Monção and Melgaço. The wines, which are usually bottled as single varietals, are just as enjoyable young as they are when mature. Their intense aromas are reminiscent of citrus fruits and peaches. Due to its lively freshness, the wine goes well with chicken dishes, but also with a menu featuring veal or fresh scallops.

Arinto/Pedernã stands for versatility

The Arinto grape variety is one of Portugal's oldest indigenous varieties and has long been cultivated in the Bucelas region north of Lisbon. It is characterized by its particular adaptability to different soils and climates. The grapes ripen late in the vineyard and their distinctive acidity is preserved just as well in hot conditions as in the coolness of the Vinho Verde region. There, it is known as the Pedernã grape. The wines are characterized by an intense citrus note and are a good cuvée partner. However, they are also popular for sparkling wines. If you are looking for a wine to accompany salads with delicate dressings, marinated antipasti, and simply prepared shellfish, Arinto is the perfect choice. It is also an ideal wine for a summer picnic in the park or a barbecue on the terrace at home.

Encruzado – Roses and violets send their regards

The Encruzado grape has an almost perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. It delights with aromas of roses and violets, light citrus notes, and a hint of resin. When this lush wine is aged in oak barrels, it develops a breathtaking complexity. It has great aging potential and then delights with hazelnut and vanilla aromas. This grape variety grows almost exclusively in the Dão region and is processed both as a single variety and in blends. Due to its delicate aromas, Encruzado harmonizes with all light dishes. It is therefore particularly popular served with creamy risotto dishes, firm-fleshed fish, roasted root vegetables, or simply pasta al fredo.

Fernão Pires/Maria Gomes – a sweet wine with floral accents

The most widely grown and one of the oldest white grape varieties in Portugal is Fernão Pires/Maria Gomes. It is cultivated in almost all wine regions, from the southern west coast with the Setúbal Peninsula to the banks of the Tagus River near Lisbon. In the stronghold of Bairrada, the grape variety is also known as Maria Gomes. It is used to produce white wines with fresh, aromatic, and floral accents. Harvested late, it is particularly suitable for the production of sweet wines. In Bairrada, it is also highly valued as a basis for sparkling wines. Portuguese white wine goes well with many dishes, but especially with white fish and curry dishes. Pan-fried chicken breast also harmonizes well with the ripe citrus aromas of white wine.

Vinho Verde after a hot day

After a hot day, a Vinho Verde is just the thing to start off your dinner. Grown in the cool and rainy north of Portugal, this young wine is made from grapes that grow on barren, sandy granite soils. Vinho Verde does not translate as “green wine”; the name refers to its age and it is usually a sparkling, light white wine.

A cozy evening with friends

Whether you're enjoying a long-aged, elegant white wine or a young, sparkling one, whether you're dining at a restaurant, enjoying a festive meal at home, or spending a cozy evening with friends, there are a few rules to keep in mind. Which white wine to pair with which food is, first and foremost, a matter of taste. The following combinations are generally considered harmonious: wines rich in alcohol and acidity with fatty foods. Low-acid, light wines go well with salty, strongly spiced foods. Strong dishes call for a tannin-rich, heavy wine. The following applies to all: white wine is ideally served cool at around ten degrees Celsius.

Portuguese white wines