Best Portuguese Spirit Types
Along with Cognac and Armagnac, the Portuguese Lourinhã region is one of the three designated brandy-production regions in the world. This brandy is mostly produced with neutral white wine that has good acidity. Recommended grape varieties include Alicante, Alvadurão, Broal Espinho, Marquinhas, Malvásia Rei (Seminário), and Tália.
After it is distilled, the spirit is aged in oak casks before it is cut with water to reach the desired alcohol content of 40% ABV. Aging must be carried out in the designated region, exclusively in oak and chestnut barrels. Specific climate, terroir, and the proximity of the sea all influence the final character of Lourinhã brandy.
This Portuguese fruit brandy is distilled from fermented medronho berries that grow wild throughout the Algarve region. The production of medronho has not been completely regulated, and though many distilleries have been licensed, some producers still operate illegally.
The drink is typically clear and strong and is mainly enjoyed neat, preferably as a digestif. Until recently, it was mainly found at the local taverns in Algarve, but the producers and the government have made an effort to turn medronho into an exquisite Portuguese product.
THE BEST Medronho Fruit Brandies
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Aguardente bagaceira is a clear and colorless Portuguese spirit distilled from grape pomace—the skins and pulps left as a by-product of winemaking. It is made by winemakers, but it is mostly produced in rural areas as a type of rustic drink that is not intended for commercial production.
Aguardente bagaceira can vary in quality, depending on the distillation and the base ingredient. The best examples should be powerful but with a smooth, warming finish and a fruity grape aroma. The distillate is sometimes aged to produce a softer, mellower style known as bagaceira velha.
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AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2021
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World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2020
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
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IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
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Bagamel is a Portuguese company established in 1976, headquartered in Silves, in the Algarve region. It specializes in the production and bottling of alcoholic beverages, with a particular focus on the traditional aguardente de medronho (arbutus berry brandy).
The company employs original and traditional production methods to ensure the authenticity and quality of its products. In addition to arbutus berry brandy, Bagamel offers a variety of liqueurs, including lemon, orange, carob, and almond liqueurs, crafted to suit Portuguese tastes.
BEST Bagamel Spirits
Best Portuguese Spirits
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2021
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2020
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
AWARDS
The Gin Masters - Gold
2022
Aguardente de Medronho "Castelo de Silves" is a traditional Portuguese brandy produced through the distillation of medronho berries (Arbutus unedo), commonly known as the strawberry tree fruit. This beverage is a specialty of the Algarve region, where medronho grows abundantly.
The company Bagamel, established in 1976 and based in Silves, employs traditional production methods to preserve the authenticity and quality of its products. Traditionally served as a digestif, it is often paired with coffee. It is recommended to enjoy it in a balloon glass, slightly warmed or over ice, to highlight the rich aromas and unique flavor of this distinctive drink.
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