Vinho Verde (Portugal)
Vinho Verde is often bottled with CO2 (Carbon Dioxide), resulting in a light and sparkling wine.
Vinho Verde Flavors
Vinho Verde flavors varies from Lemon to Tropical Fruit depending on the grape variety used.
Floral Loureiro. Creamy Avesso. Steely Trajadura. Mineral Arinto and Alvarinho.
 Lemonade |
 Lime |
 Grapefruit |
 Peach |
 Apple |
 Gooseberry |
 Flint |
Vinho Verde Profile
| SUGAR: | Dry (3 g/l) |
| BODY: | Light |
| FRUIT: | Low |
| ACIDITY: | Medium - High |
| ALCOHOL: | 8-12% ABV |
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Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F) |
Vinho Verde Food Pairing
Vinho Verde pairs well with both Seafood and White Meat.
 Aperitif |
 Oysters |
 Fish |
 Seafood |
 Chicken |
 Turkey |
 Pork |
 Cheese |
Excellent Pairings
Aperitif. All kinds of Sea Food. Bacalao.
Mixed Shellfish Platters. Oysters. Crab. Shrimps.
Monkfish. Seabass. Sushi. Sashimi.
Ceviche. Shellfish Pasta.
White Meat. Veal. Pork. Chicken.
Potato Dishes. Hummus.
Portuguese Specialities
Caldo Verde (Green Soup).
Prawns with Garlic.
The Ideal Glass for Vinho Verde
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A Riesling Glass has a tall and narrow bowl to emphasize the aromas of the wine. The shape also helps balance the high acidity often found in Vinho Verde. The glass is also perfect for any other bone dry wines with high acidity like Chablis, Chenin Blanc, Picpoul and Vinho Verde. |
Vinho Verde Cheese Pairing
Vinho Verde is known for its light, crisp, and sometimes slightly fruity profile. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses.
Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity.
You can also add fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), or a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.
Fresh and Mild Cheeses
Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes of Vinho Verde.
Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.
Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Soft Cheeses
Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Vinho Verde.
Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.
Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.
Semi-Hard Cheeses
Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.
Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.
Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the wine.
Blue Cheeses (for contrast)
Gorgonzola Dolce: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.
If You Like Vinho Verde
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About
Vinho Verde is not a grape. The name means "Green Wine" but translates as "Young Wine".
The wines are most often made from a blend of local grape varieties like Alvarinho, Loureiro, Arinto, Trajadura, Avesso, and Azal.
The dominant grapes are Alvarinho and Loureiro.
The Minho Region (Vinho Verde)
Minho is the largest wine region in Portugal, producing nearly 100 million liters of Vinho Verde every year.
Vinho Verde wines often have a small sparkling sensation that enhances the taste and freshness.
Portugal is a great Rosé Wine nation. The cool climate in Minho gives good freshness to Rosé Wines.
Grapes | Wines |
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Soil | Climate |
Granite |
Moderate Maritime |
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