Douro

Wines from the Douro Region

For almost two millennia, on the schistous slopes of the Douro valley, a singular viticultural landscape and an exceptional wine have been created. More than a gift of nature, Port Wine is, in its essence, this historical thickness, a collective cultural heritage of work and experience, knowledge and art, that generations and generations have accumulated. Port Wine was and is a key product of the national economy and even more a symbolic value that distinctively represents Portugal in the world.
The history of the Alto Douro vineyards is very old. There is no lack of archeological discoveries and documentary references testifying to the cultural persistence of the winegrowing endeavor of other eras.

A little bit of history

Port Wine

Royalty, cocktais and cinematography

It is the oldest demarcated region in the world - formally working hard since 1756. That's a lot of years. Despite the title of this section, in reality, when we talk about the Douro we are talking about a lot of history. The region's prodigal son, Port Wine, is called by its first name everywhere in the world and has been seen many times at the table of kings, in the cocktails of artists, or in James Bond movies.

Like all famous people, it is admired by some, envied by others, imitated by many, and today there are international producers seeking to reproduce the character of this wine. With little success, as far as the great Ports are concerned.

It would not be enough the same grapes, nor the same processes, to replicate our Port wine, it would be necessary to move the river and the hillsides that are World Heritage. And that, let's face it, even for a large Australian producer, would be a huge inconvenience.

What to expect

the best wines in the world

Some of the best wines in the world. At least, that's what Wine Spectator told us at the end of 2014, by electing 3 Douro Wines to its Top 5, with one of them soon topping the list. Makes you wonder.

Besides Port Wine, the Douro produces some of the best Portuguese still wine. It is common to find rich and complex blends, heavily marked by local grape varieties (such as Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca).

Besides wine, the Douro Vinhateiro region has breathtaking landscapes and heart-warming cuisine. So, on foot, by car, by boat or by bike - it doesn't matter: if you don't know it yet, get moving.

Tasting notes

Red Wines

Young: ruby-colored, with aromas of red berries and floral and wood notes, they are medium-bodied with balanced astringency, that is: they are not heavy, nor do they leave your tongue with the sensation that a persimmon has passed over it. They are honest wines that go beautifully with pizza and pasta, codfish, and simple meat dishes. They win when served between 13º and 15º.
Wines for ageing: with a deep color, complexity, and aromatic intensity: a joy! They are often called Reserva or Grande Reserva and evolve over the years, becoming softer and more subtle in their aromas. The older ones are recommended to accompany game dishes. They should be served between 16º and 18º, so don't hesitate to chill them slightly in the refrigerator if it is warmer at home.

Common Varieties

Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Aragonez), Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão.

White Wines

Young: light-colored, almost translucent, they are fresh, balanced and aromatic, with citrus notes. Their lightness goes well with fish dishes and salads, but they can also be an aperitif. Recommended temperature: 8º to 10º.

Wines for ageing: They are usually fermented or aged in wood, which gives them a beautiful golden color and toasted and tropical fruit aromas. They are often called Reserva and Grande Reserva. They are full, persistent wines that are a pleasure to taste - so we shouldn't kill their flavor with an hour in the freezer. Try serving at 12º and you will see that you get more out of the experience!

Common grape varieties

Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, Gouveio e Rabigato.

Rosé Wines

Attractive in color, light in flavor. Do you like sushi? Do you like the typical curry of Indian cuisine? And a Vietnamese soup (pho)? Then try accompanying them with one of these rosé wines served slightly chilled (between 10º and 12º). Oh, and don't forget to drink them while they are still young!

Seal of Guarantee:

It is up to the IVDP to award the seal of quality to the wines of the region

Source:

IVV and CVR Douro.