Vinho Verde
History
Vinho Verde is a Portuguese wine from the Minho region in the far north of the country. The name means "Green Wine", referring to its youthful freshness rather than its color. The Vinho Verdes are light and clean, and are intended to be drunk within a year. The white Vinho Verde is very fresh, due its natural acidity, with fruity and floral aromas that depend on the grape variety. Its four main varietals are the highly aromatic Alvarinho (also known as Albarino in Spain), the spicy Loureiro, the apricot-flavored Trajadura, and the apple-scented Avesso. These four varieties are blended differently in the diverse areas of production in the appellation, along with many other varietals. There are currently nearly 35,000 hectares of Vinho Verde vineyards, making up 15% of the total vineyards in Portugal.
Tasting/Food Pairing
It is also a light sparkling, which adds to the lightness of the flavor. Many fans of Vinho Verde say that it can be dangerous, because the delicate flavor and light weight of the wine can trick you into drinking more than you should. Vinho Verde is best served chilled, and it pairs well with seafood, spicy food, and cheeses, also a great pairing for sushi (try some pieces of nigiri without soy or wasabi with some Vinho Verde. It's an eye-opener.), bright fruits, or dishes with cream cheese (like mousses or some lighter terrines). Many people find this wine enjoyable during the summer months, when it can be a pleasant wine for a picnic or a garden party. If you are drinking Vinho Verde in the sun, watch out for the wine's hidden kick, which can take you by surprise in warm weather.
Geography
Vinho Verde is produced in the Minho region of Portugal. The Minho region is the largest wine-producing area in the country, covering 160 km from Vale de Cambria south of the river Douro to the river Minho forming the Spanish border.
Vinho Verde is divided into six production areas, each with its own specificities: Monção, Lima, Braga, Basto, Penafiel, and Amarante.
The region is mostly mountainous and rocky, composed of schist, granite and slate.
Climate
Rainfall and western Atlantic winds are the strongest influence in the region. They allow for intensive cultivation, despite the mountainous nature of the terrain.
Viticulture
The region is characterized by many small growers who train their vines high off the ground on pergola trellises, on trees and on fences.
The suspension of vines high off the ground was historically intended to leave room for farmers to cultivate other crops below the vines, in order to feed their families. Besides this economic benefit, it also reduces the risk of diseases as well as excessive heat.
There is no strict regulation regarding the blends. Along with the dominant Alvarinho, Loureiro, Trajadura and Avesso, many other varietals can enter the mix.
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