Alentejo

The sun-drenched countryside of Alentejo, located on the southeastern part Portugal, is fast becoming one of the most important wine regions in the country. It has become a source for bold and fruity wines, which most compare to the style and structure familiar in California wines.   

The region is vast, sparse, and historically known as poor. It’s comprised of hot, rolling plains which also produce olive oil, wheat, and more than half of the world’s supply of cork. Lack of forests meant that wines here were made in huge earthenware amphorae (pictured right) during the Roman times. A handful of producers have maintained this tradition and continue to produce wine this way.

With the advent of technology and advancement of viniculture techniques, Alentejo is gaining a reputation for stand out reds that offer generous fruit, mocha, and plum flavors. The whites range from medium to full-bodied styles similar to Chardonnay.  

Photo credit: @latypiquewines 

Top Red Varietals: Aragonês (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, Castelão, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah

Top White Varietals: Aristo, Roupeiro, Antāo Vaz, Chardonnay