The Alentejo region, in Portugal, is recognized for being a rustic, charming place with outstanding landscapes. In addition, the Alentejo wine is the trademark of this Portuguese area.
That’s because the Alentejo surprises with its unrivaled ability to produce differentiated and unique wines. No wonder the region is an example of quality in Portugal when it comes to grape-based drinks.
Its bottles are exported all over the world and are among the best wines on the planet.
That’s why this huge area became one of the most important wine producers in Portugal.
This is due to the evolution of viticulture and winemaking processes that were introduced in the region. Of course, without forgetting the legacy of the centuries-old vines in the Alentejo.
Want to find out which are the best ones to try? Come with us on this tasty journey!
Many wonder how the Alentejo discovered its ability for producing the best wines.
The truth is that this is an ancient story that began at least 2000 BC, by the Tartessians. They were responsible for the first planting of vines in Portuguese territory.
However, it was the Roman Empire that generalized and popularized the culture of wine in the Alentejo area.
Even so, it is still possible to find remnants of the first processes in the current manufacture of Alentejo wine. One of the main ones is the fermentation carried out in clay pots.
However, the success of wine from that region took a little longer to come. After all, it was only in the mid-17th century that Alentejo wine gained fame and prestige in Portugal.
From then on, the area entered the route of the best Portuguese wines in the world. As a result, the region currently concentrates one of the main wineries in Portugal.
Its huge plantation is lost from sight by the beautiful plains, full of countless vineyards.
But what is the formula for the success of wines produced in the Alentejo region? This is what we will explain to you later.
Right from the start, we can say that there are countless grape varieties planted. However, among white Alentejo wine, the Antão Vaz grape is the area’s biggest bet.
In the region, the native grape varieties Arinto Fernão Pires and Roupeiro are also very famous.
As for the red wines, the Alicante Bouschet, Aragonês and Trincadeira stand out. Not to mention that it’s possible to find regional favorites made with Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Chardonnay.
As we can see, the diversity and plurality of Alentejo wine guarantees their enviable quality in Portugal.
Red wines from this region tend to be dark because they’re full-bodied and rich in tannins.
The white ones, on the other hand, are known to be smooth, slightly acidic with aromas of tropical fruits.
All of them offer unique characteristics, being very tasty and engaging.
Finally, we could not fail to present two special choices that you should enjoy with friends.
The first choice is Magna Carta Alentejo Reserva. It is a dry red wine, very harmonious and elegant.
The second option is the Romeira Reserva Regional Alentejano. This is a wine made with Aragonês, Alicante Bouschet and Trincadeira grapes, with a reminiscent aroma of red fruit compote.
Now that you know this, you can indulge and savor every note of the best Alentejo wine!
