About Vinhos do alentejo
Vinhos do Alentejo: A Comprehensive Guide to the Wines of Alentejo
Vinhos do Alentejo is a company that specializes in the certification, control, protection, and promotion of DOC Alentejo wines and Regional Alentejano wines. The Comissao Vitivinicola Regional Alentejana (CVRA) established this organization in 1989 to ensure that only the highest quality wines are produced in this region.
Alentejo is a vast wine region located in southern Portugal. It covers an area of over 26,000 square kilometers and is home to more than 250 wineries. The region's warm climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for growing grapes.
The CVRA has strict regulations that all wineries must follow to produce DOC Alentejo wines. These regulations cover everything from grape varieties to aging requirements. Only wineries that meet these standards can use the DOC label on their bottles.
Regional Alentejano wines are also subject to regulations but are not as strict as those for DOC wines. These wines must be made from grapes grown within the region but have more flexibility when it comes to grape varieties and aging requirements.
Vinhos do Alentejo works closely with wineries throughout the region to ensure that they meet these standards. They provide guidance on everything from vineyard management techniques to bottling procedures.
One of Vinhos do Alentejo's primary goals is promoting the unique characteristics of this wine region. They work with local tourism boards and travel agencies to showcase what makes this area so special.
Altogether, there are over 20 different grape varieties grown in this region, including both reds and whites. Some of the most popular red grapes include Aragonez (also known as Tempranillo), Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional, Castelão Frances (also known as Periquita), and Alfrocheiro. Popular white grape varieties include Antão Vaz, Arinto, Roupeiro (also known as Síria), and Fernão Pires.
The wines produced in Alentejo are known for their full-bodied flavors and rich aromas. Red wines tend to be bold and spicy with notes of dark fruit, while white wines are crisp and refreshing with hints of citrus.
In addition to DOC Alentejo and Regional Alentejano wines, Vinhos do Alentejo also promotes the region's fortified wine called Vinho de Talha. This unique wine is made using ancient techniques that involve fermenting grapes in large clay pots called talhas.
Overall, Vinhos do Alentejo is an essential organization for anyone interested in exploring the world of Portuguese wine. Their dedication to quality control ensures that only the best wines make it to market, while their promotion efforts help showcase what makes this region so special. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of wine, there's something for everyone in Alentejo.