Alentejo
The Alentejo region in eastern Portugal embodies the strength of the national viticultural landscape. Encompassing vast plains that stretch endlessly, occasionally punctuated by gentle hills, this expanse offers a mesmerizing panorama that captivates the beholder. However, it's not just the scenic beauty that defines Alentejo; it's the flourishing wine industry that has garnered widespread acclaim both domestically and internationally.
The best of Alentejo wines
The Alentejo region in eastern Portugal embodies the strength of the national viticultural landscape. Encompassing vast plains that stretch endlessly, occasionally punctuated by gentle hills, this expanse offers a mesmerizing panorama that captivates the beholder. However, it's not just the scenic beauty that defines Alentejo; it's the flourishing wine industry that has garnered widespread acclaim both domestically and internationally.
Covering a staggering one-third of Portugal, Alentejo basks in a climate characterized by warmth and aridity. This region has been a beneficiary of significant investments directed toward its wine sector, catalyzing its evolution into a hub for some of Portugal's finest vintages.
Among its renowned offerings, Alentejo boasts a particularly stellar reputation for its red wines, which have earned prestigious recognition under the Alentejo DOC (Denominação de Origem Controlada) designation. These wines are emblematic of the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to viticulture that define the region's winemaking ethos.
Other regions
The grapes of Alentejo wines
Among the primary grapes cultivated here are Aragonez (also known as Tempranillo), Castelao, and Trincadeira, either as standalone varietals or in harmonious, robust blends, presenting a luscious, jammy profile. The white wine domain is masterfully curated by Antao Vaz, celebrated for its crisp acidity and vibrant tropical fruit notes. Not content with tradition alone, Alentejo has embraced internationally acclaimed grapes like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, reshaping and infusing these French varieties with a distinctive Alentejano flair, a testament to its progressive winemaking spirit.
The terroir of Alentejo wines
The Alentejo region is situated south of the Tejo River with the Algarve region as its sole barrier from the southern coastline. Unlike the densely populated northern coastal areas, Alentejo boasts vast expanses of sparsely inhabited land. Its diverse terroir defies easy definition. The gently rolling landscapes shielded from the Atlantic's influence are perfect for producing rich, inviting red wines, effortlessly achieving grape ripeness. However, the Portuguese subregion in the northeast presents a cooler climate, offering a unique winemaking landscape within Alentejo.
The classifications of Alentejo wines
In Alentejo, there are two types of appellations: the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and the Geographical Indication (PGI). The PDO, established in 1988, represents the highest quality level and includes eight subregions:
- Borba
- Évora
- Granja-Amareleja
- Moura
- Portalegre
- Redondo
- Reguengos
- Vidigueira
These subregions each bring their unique terroir and winemaking traditions, defining the diverse range of Alentejo wines under strict quality standards. The CVRA (Comissão Vitivinícola Regional Alentejana), founded in 1989, oversees and protects the authenticity of all Alentejo wines.