Green Wines
Between the Minho and Douro rivers, the Vinhos Verdes (Green Wines) (DOC) vineyards extend over
34,000 ha, in the northwest region of Portugal (the Minho). In its traditional form, many vineyards rely on trees,
such as oaks and plantains, among others. For decades, green wine was the most representative wine of all Portuguese wines.
Green Wines © Images of Portugal
Green Wines of Minho
The great difference of the green wine is, mainly, the "strong personality of the local varieties and the forms of cultivation of the
vineyards" [1]. In this region, traditionally, many vines grow up in the trees at the edge of the fields. These wines have low
staining - light citrus yellow, greenish straw - and average alcoholic content.
Alvarinho and other breeds
With the exception of a pair of grape varieties (Arinto and Avignon), the varieties used for the production of green wine come from the
region: Alvarinho and Avesso (white) and Espadeiro, BorraƧal and Amaral (red wines).
Young Green Wines
In general, Green Wines are consumed young, until the second after the production. A difference of these wines is the freshness,
which makes them very appreciated during the summer season.
Green Wine © Ari Oliveira
Monção's Green Wine
One of the most famous Green Wines is Vinho Verde Alvarinho, produced in Monção, traditional and with a slightly higher
alcohol content (13%), and can be consumed a little older, reaching 3 years or more .