Vinho Verde - Minho, Portugal
Vineyards in Vinho Verde Demarcated Region in Minho, Portugal
Vinho Verde is produced from grapes which do not reach great doses of sugar. Therefore, Vinho Verde does not require an aging process.
These wines are produced in the Northwest of Portugal in the historical regions of Minho and Douro Litoral. The region produces wines from very Ancient times; only in 1908 the region was demarcated. Vinho Verde is influenced by the nearby ocean and high humidity, typical aspects of the region that can be observed in the wine's refreshing taste. Thus, Vinho Verde always requires low temperatures before serving. It is known for having diuretic and digestible properties. And, are a category of wines that are unique and typical of Portugal. These are very light wines and naturally gassy.
Vinho Verde wines are now largely exported, and are the most exported Portuguese wines after the Port Wine. The most popular variety in Portugal and abroad are the white wines, but there are also red and more rarely rosé wines.
A notable variety of Vinho Verde is Vinho Alvarinho which is a special variety of white Vinho Verde, the production of Alvarinho is restricted by EU law to a small sub-region of Monção, in the northern part of the Minho region in Portugal. It has more alcohol (11.5 to 13%) than the other varieties (8 to 11.5%).
Wikipedia article: Vinho Verde