Portugal - Bairrada Flashcards
Bairrada climate and rainfall?
Maritime climate (same as Vinho Verde)
High rainfall at 800-1200mm
Vine training in Bairrada? (2)
Traditionally high trained steaked bush vines
New vineyards are guyot VSP (same as Dao)
Baga tasting note? (4)
High acid
High tannin
Medium body
Cranberry, cherry, plum
Often needs bottle age
Baga ripening/budding?
Late budding
Late ripening (an issue as Bairrada rains in Autumn)
Like Mourvedre and Carignan
Best soil for Baga? (3)
Clay-limestone
Good for water retention to aid ripening throughout growing season and still provide some drainage
Limestone rocks and pebbles also reflect solar energy back to the vines
Whole bunch in Bairrada?
Historically used to add longevity through tannins
Now used in smaller portions to add fresher fruit character and enhance aromas
Fermentation vessels in Bairrada? (3)
Stainless steel
Concrete vats
Lagares
Oak types used in Bairrada?
500-650L large French oak (most common)
Large Portuguese or Brazilian oak (traditional)
Large Foudres (French, Austrian or Italian)
International varieties permitted in Bairrada?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Suited to maritime climate with free draining soils
Baga Classico must contain…?
Min 50% Baga
Min 85% Baga, Alfrocheiro, Touriga, Jaen (Mencia) and Camarate
4 main white grapes of Bairrada? (4)
Maria Gomes
Bical
Arinto
Cercial
Maria Gomes and Bical ripening?
Early ripening. Good for Bairrada’s damp wet autumns
Maria Gomes and Bical acid levels?
Medium+ acid
Arinto and Cercial acid levels? (3)
High
Characterised by apple and citrus flavours
Adds acid and freshness to blends
Marie Gomes flavours and aromas?
Citrus and floral