Discover the wines of Trás-os-Montes, a mountainous region in northeastern Portugal, rich in history and winemaking tradition. Wine production here dates back centuries, with numerous rock-carved wine presses of Roman and pre-Roman origin, shaped by extreme climatic conditions. The wines here are as intense and unique as the terroir they come from, offering unmatched flavors and aromas.
Fresh Whites and Characterful Reds
Trás-os-Montes wines are noted for their freshness and structure. The whites offer lively acidity and floral aromas that bring lightness and freshness. The reds show intense color and robustness, combining ripe fruit and complexity. Grown at altitudes between 350 and 750 meters, these vines benefit from temperature variations, which accentuate the aromatic expression and character of the wines, making them perfect for food pairings or to be enjoyed on their own.
Three Sub-Regions, Three Identities
The diversity and typicity of Trás-os-Montes wines are closely tied to their unique terroir. This mountainous region includes three distinct sub-regions, each with Denominação de Origem (DO Trás-os-Montes) status and a unique winemaking identity shaped by climate and soil:
Chaves Sub-Region: Located near the Spanish border, with granite and schist soils, this area is marked by high rainfall and humidity. The wines produced here are fresh and elegant, with a minerality that reflects the mountainous terroir.
Valpaços Sub-Region: In the heart of the “Terra Quente” (Hot Land) of Trás-os-Montes, Valpaços stands out for its long winemaking tradition. The predominance of schist soils brings robustness to the wines, while the warm climate favors full-bodied and aromatic wines.
Planalto Mirandês Sub-Region: With schist and granite soils, this sub-region is influenced by the Douro River, which provides thermal amplitudes and low humidity. The vineyards, often grown in “goblet” style, produce unique, fresh, and mineral wines, using cultivation practices close to organic.
Main Grape Varieties: A Palette of Flavors and Aromas
Among the many white varieties of Trás-os-Montes, we highlight Gouveio, which adds structure and vibrant acidity, combined with citrus and peach notes, ideal for fresh, lively wines. Rabigato, with its pronounced minerality and freshness, stands out for its aging potential and marked floral acidity that enhances the wine’s elegant balance. Códega de Larinho brings an aromatic richness with intense tropical fruits harmonized with delicate floral notes, while Malvasia Fina adds honeyed nuances and touches of wax and spices, providing unique aromatic complexity even without oak aging.
Among the reds, the noble Touriga Nacional stands out with its intense aromas, combining red fruits and elegant floral notes, while Touriga Franca adds body and structure, resulting in balanced wines ideal for aging. Tinta Roriz, known for its robustness and notes of ripe fruits and spices, adds elegance and depth, while Tinta Amarela and Bastardo complete the profile with floral hints, good acidity, and interesting alcoholic potential.
Celebrate São Martinho with Trás-os-Montes Wines
Let yourself be captivated by the authenticity and intensity of Trás-os-Montes wines. Learn more here.
With São Martinho approaching, it’s the perfect time to discover the genuine flavors of Trás-os-Montes and celebrate with intense, authentic wines, perfect for pairing with the best chestnuts from this traditional land.
