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

	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

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 Riesling glass is perfect for any 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

Mató is a fresh cheese from Catalonia in Spain. It has mild, slightly tangy flavor with a creamy texture, and is especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.

A tangy Goat Cheese (Chèvre, Feta) will also complement the subtle fruit notes in a Vinho Verde.

Soft Cheeses

Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Vinho Verde.

A creamy Serra da Estrela will provide a refreshing contrast, making Vinho Verde an excellent pairing choice.

The creamy and tangy characteristics of a Neufchatel pair well with wines like Vinho Verde, balance its richness and enhance its flavors.

Semi-Hard Cheeses

A young aged Manchego can add a complementary tang to a Vinho Verde.

A nutty and sweet Gruyère can also enhance the delicate quality of a Vinho Verde.

Fondue cheeses are rich, creamy, and often salty. They call for a wine that can cut through the fat, refresh the palate, and balance the dish's intensity.