From all fruits in the world, Vitis vinifera (a common grape vine) is the first in terms of planted area. There are approximately 10 thousand grape varieties but only a few are used by international producers.
In Portugal we plant a vast range of grape varieties. From native to international varieties, there are 166 reds and 152 whites in the territory. This is a reason why Portuguese wines are so different and unique and represent its grape’s personality and quality .
From Minho to Algarve, we have vineyards almost everywhere. Actually, 2.6% of the Portuguese territory is occupied by vineyards. According to OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine), this number makes us the leader in grape+s plantation (as a percentage of the entire territory).
Nonetheless, Portugal is the third biggest consumer per capita and we have centuries of history as a wine producer. So, it proves we are a country that has invested in wine.
The cherry on top is that we produce some of the best value for money wines. A great example of it is the recently awarded Red Wine Porca de Murça 2013, which was considered by Wine Spectator one of the best wines in the world and costs less then 5 euros.
Cheers!
