Diversity is the watchword when you think of Lisbon wines. 9 designations of origin, which differ in soils, grape varieties, types and styles of wine produced - everything is diverse and heterogeneous in the Lisbon region. Lourinhã, for example, is famous for its brandies, Carcavelos for its fortified wine and Bucelas only produces white wine.
The Atlantic influence is a common denominator and softens the summer temperatures through sea breezes and frequent morning fogs, giving rise to wines of enviable freshness.
Speaking of white wines, they only account for 20% of Lisbon's wine production, but in our opinion they are one of the region's ex-libris! More than 50 white grape varieties are allowed, including national and international ones, the main ones being Fernão Pires, which accounts for around 50% of the planting, and Arinto with 25%.
Fernão Pires is a grape variety with great aromatic presence, making it a good choice for easy and appealing entry-level wines. Our suggestion goes to Adega Mãe's Pinta Negra, Palha-Canas or Alfacinha. Uncomplicated, straightforward and very well made.
Arinto is one of the great national grapes with its maximum potential in Bucelas, where there is the greatest genetic variability, indicating that this area was the origin of the variety. Don't miss Morgado de Bucelas or the original Lés-a-Lés de Pedra e Cal. Two beautiful examples of the region's Arinto.
We couldn't finish without mentioning Malvasia de Colares, a grape variety that develops aromas of yeast, mushrooms, brioche and orange blossom and stays that way for years. Salinity and minerality are other characteristics of this variety. Distinctive and exciting.
Take a look at our suggestions today and let yourself be seduced by Lisbon's whites.
