31 - Portugal Flashcards
What characterizes the climate of Portugal?
much of Portugal has maritime climate due to being by Atlantic Ocean. but inland vineyards the climate is hot and dry continental.
In some regions the altitude can help to mitigate high temps.
Where in Portugal is the Vinho verde region located? What is its climate?
in the north-west of Portugal, near Atlantic ocean -> moderate maritime climate and high rainfall.
What type of vineyard management is used in Vinho Verde to manage high rainfall?
Traditionally used pergola trellising. but now, Spur-pruned VSP creates airflow in the humid environment. Improves health of grapes, and allows mechanisation.
Which local grapes play an important role in Vinho Verde?
Loureiro and Arinto
What are the classic white Vinho Verde wines’ characteristics?
pale lemon,
high acid, low alcohol
sometimes off dry (especially the lower alcohol wines)
What type of Vinho Verde does the grape Alvarinho make? How does it compare to classic Vinho Verde?
Vinho Verde Alvarinho
the grapes are grown in a small designated sub-region. It has higher alcohol than Vinho Verde (11.5-14%). Riper, more tropical aromas
What are the classification of Portuguese wine according to local laws?
PDO: Denominacao de Origem Protegida (DOP) or Denominacao de Origem Controlada (DOC)
PGI: Indicacao Geografica Protegida (IGP)
Where is the Douro located?
east of Porto. stretches to the frontier with Spain which is east of Portugal.
What are the five grape varieties that Port and unfortified wines made in the Douro rely on? Which is the most well-known?
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinta Barroca, Tinta Cao
Touriga Nacional is the highest-quality and most well known ->low yields, intense color, high tannin
What are key characteristics of the red wines made in the Douro?
deep color, full body
high, ripe tannin
rich black fruit
new oak -> toasty aromas
Where is Dao in Portugal located? What is the climate here?
south of Douro region (and south of Vinho Verde)
vines are planted on gentler slopes in the region (200-400 m above sea level)
cold, wet winters
warm, dry summers
significant diurnal range
->excellent conditions for high-quality grapes
What are characteristics of red wines from Dao?
delicate red fruit
soft tannin
high acid
What are the main 4 grapes grown in the Dao?
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Jaen (Mencia in Spain) and Alfrocheiro
these are high-quality varieties enabled through vineyard improvement schemes
Where is Bairrada located? What is its climate?
between Dao and the Atlantic Ocean
maritime climate, rainy winters and warm summers
What is the dominant black variety of Bairrada? What are its characteristics?
Baga late-ripening small, thick-skinned berries deep color, high tannin usually later picked and gentle crushing and maceration gives softer wines and avoids high acid and astringent tannins
