Let's dive into the more Portuguese reds that we are highlighting for our #juneisforindies Wines of Portugal campaign.
Region:
The region of Bairrada was a land of conquerors, of fights between Christians and Arabs, early in the formation of Portugal, when the capital of the kingdom was Coimbra and the path was towards south. It was also a land defending the independence, threatened by the invading armies of Napoleon, held at Buçaco. But their vineyards serenely watched all these past convulsions, because its fruits have always been appreciated. Also for this reason, the export of wine to foreign countries began early.
Terroir:
Because it is near the sea, the climate is typically Atlantic, with mild and rainy winters, a hot but slightly windy summer. During the ripening period of the grapes, this region registers a great thermal amplitude, sometimes the difference reaches the 20ºC. This phenomenon is responsible for maintaining the acidity of the grapes, giving freshness to the wines that result from them..
Grapes:
Baga is the dominant red variety. The wines made from this variety are full of colour and rich in acids, but well balanced and with great longevity. Recently, the DOC of Bairrada has been allowed to plant international varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir, which share the lands with other national varieties, such as Touriga Nacional or Tinta Roriz.
How it tastes:
Region:
The region of Bairrada was a land of conquerors, of fights between Christians and Arabs, early in the formation of Portugal, when the capital of the kingdom was Coimbra and the path was towards south. It was also a land defending the independence, threatened by the invading armies of Napoleon, held at Buçaco. But their vineyards serenely watched all these past convulsions, because its fruits have always been appreciated. Also for this reason, the export of wine to foreign countries began early.
Terroir:
Because it is near the sea, the climate is typically Atlantic, with mild and rainy winters, a hot but slightly windy summer. During the ripening period of the grapes, this region registers a great thermal amplitude, sometimes the difference reaches the 20ºC. This phenomenon is responsible for maintaining the acidity of the grapes, giving freshness to the wines that result from them..
Grapes:
Baga is the dominant red variety. The wines made from this variety are full of colour and rich in acids, but well balanced and with great longevity. Recently, the DOC of Bairrada has been allowed to plant international varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir, which share the lands with other national varieties, such as Touriga Nacional or Tinta Roriz.
How it tastes:
Intense berry and baked fruit aromas with spice and appealingly rustic notes. Vibrant plum and black cherry on the palate with liquorice hints, robust tannins, and finely poised acidity.
What to pair it with:
Given the variety's power, a wide range of pairings for Baga wines exist, predominantly at the more robust end of the gastronomic spectrum. Roast pork with crackling or braised beef ribs will go nicely with red wines made from Baga.
What to pair it with:
Given the variety's power, a wide range of pairings for Baga wines exist, predominantly at the more robust end of the gastronomic spectrum. Roast pork with crackling or braised beef ribs will go nicely with red wines made from Baga.
So give this versatile big bold BBQ red a whirl this summer - we guarantee you'll love it on its own. with friends, and with food!