Portugal is best known for its indigenous grape varieties. Traditionally known for producing prestigious Port and sweet caramel-like Madeira fortified wine, the country is now making exceptional red and white wine that has caught our attention and earned a well-deserved place in the Corks Out range.
Famous fortified wines
Many Portuguese ports are made from grapes grown on the Douro Valley, including vintage, ruby, tawny and white port. Some of the finest wines from the country can be found at Corks Out, including greats like the Taylors Vintage 1985 Port.
Madeira is also traditionally produced in the country, with Bual, Malvasia, Sercial and Verdelho grapes being used to make premium fortified wines. We would recommend the sweet and caramel-like Barbeito Rainwater Reserva.
Popular Portuguese grape varieties
Most Portuguese wines contain grapes that are local to the country, while Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are sometimes also included in blends. Grape varieties that are native to Portugal include:
Aragones: Also known as Tempranillo in Spain, this early ripening grape produces wine with juicy red fruits and uplifting spice. We would recommend the special Malhadinha Nova Tinto which is spicy with a fruity sweetness and strong structure, or the rich Monte Da Peceguina Tinto with its palate of dark chocolate, red berries, sweet vanilla and cinnamon.
Trincadeira: The grape is known to produce red wines that are beautifully full-bodied and fruity with touches of heart warming cinnamon and cloves. The Vinha Do Mouro Altentejo contains a blend of grapes including Aragones and Trincadeira, resulting in the wine being rich and spicy with a superb minerally freshness.
Touriga Nacional: This variety is often used to produce the finest port as well as reds that are deep, dark and full-bodied, with intense red fruit notes and sweet floral notes.
As this is just a small snapshot of the grape varieties grown and used to produce Portuguese wine, take a look through our wide and diverse selection below to discover even more about the exceptional blends and lesser known grapes used to make outstanding wine within the country.
Buying Information:
All bottles available to buy online at Corks Out are available with no minimum order. There is also free delivery if you spend over a qualifying amount.
