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Best Viseu Wine Types
Encruzado is a white Portuguese variety mostly associated with the Dão DOC. The grape was mostly used in blends, but it has shown great potential for high quality and age-worthy varietal examples that gain complexity and character.
The wines usually have a medium body and good acidity. The aromas are subtle, reminiscent of roses and citrus fruit. They often have a resinous character, hints of toast, and a mineral finish. Although the wines can be enjoyed young, the best examples benefit from aging and usually reach their full potential after three to five years of age.
Mencía or Jaen is a grape whose origin is associated with the Iberian peninsula. In the past, it was believed that Mencía and Jaen are two separate varieties, but recent research has shown that they are genetically identical.
In Spain, the grape is mostly associated with the Bierzo appellation that is located in the province of León. While for most of its history, Mencía was used in the production of light, somewhat bland table wines, some winemakers have seen the potential to produce more concentrated and better quality varietals with a medium body and good natural acidity.
THE BEST Jaen Wine Varieties
Alvarelhão is a red Portuguese variety mainly found in Douro and Dão wine regions. The grape is one of the old varieties with a lot of potential, but it has slightly declined in popularity. It is used in varietals and blends.
Alvarelhão-based wines are fresh and bright. They are usually high in acidity and alcohol. The aroma is subtle, reminiscent of red fruit, such as strawberries and raspberries. The wines are light-bodied and juicy. They are best paired with meat and would go especially well with BBQ.
Alfrocheiro is a little-known Portuguese grape that has the potential to create fruity red wines of excellent quality. The grape is probably native to Portugal, but there is no information about its origin and predecessors. It is assumed that it could be a relatively young variety that originated on the Iberian peninsula, as it is related to several local varieties.
Alfrocheiro is mostly cultivated in the Dão wine region, but it is also found in Alentejo, Bairrada, Tejo, and Ribatejo. The grape is often used in blends, and most varietal examples come from Dão. Alfrocheiro is an early ripening, finicky and demanding, but it can result in fantastic wines.
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Best Viseu Wine Producers
Quinta de Lemos is known for its dedication to quality and its focus on indigenous Portuguese grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Baga. The estate combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern methods, producing wines that are elegant, balanced, and expressive of the Dão’s heritage.
The winery's flagship wines include red, white, and rosé wines that showcase the richness and depth of the region's soils and climate.
AWARDS
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2019
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2021, 2020
BEST Quinta de Lemos Wines
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2020, 2019
BEST Sociedade Agrícola do Castro de Pena Alba SA Wines
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2024
BEST Sávinum, Lda Wines
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2022
BEST Empreendimentos Turisticos Montebelo sa Wines
AWARDS
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2024
BEST Aromas do Mondego - QTA de S. LOURENÇO Wines
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2022
BEST Casa De Santar Wines
AWARDS
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2019, 2018
BEST Udaca - União Das Adegas Cooperativas Do Dão, UCRL Wines
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