top white grape varietals

Portugal has over 250 native grape varietals which give Portuguese wines their distinct flavor and aroma. 

Here we take a look at the most widely used white varietals.

Alvarinho

This high-quality white grape which has been prized in the Northwest of Portugal, primarily in the Vinho Verde region, makes a rich, mineral white wine full of character, with predominant notes of peaches and citrus fruit; sometimes it also has notes of tropical fruits and flowers. 

Alvarinho wines are fuller in body and higher in alcohol than most Vinho Verde wines, and are often bottled, and labled, as a single variety. These are delicious wines that can be enjoyed when purchased, or held to improve with age. 

arinto | pederńa

This varietal makes elegant, mineral white wines with apple and lemon flavors, which are delicious when young and fresh, but can gain complexity and character if allowed to age. This grape is late-ripening, which means that it does well in hotter areas, but is able to keep its acidity – lending it to remain fresh and vibrant. It also does well in cooler regions, like Vinho Verde, and it’s an important grape in the production of sparkling wine. 

encruzado

Encruzado makes elegant, full body whites with delicate floral and citrus aromas, often times with a wonderful mineral quality. Although delicious in it’s simplicity if un-oaked, this varietal does really well if oak-fermented (or oak aged). This results in an incredibly fine and well-structured wine which can mature and gain complexity over many years.