Originally demarcated on September 18, 1908,
The Vinhos Verdes Demarcated Region extends across the entire northwest of Portugal, in the area traditionally known as Entre-Douro-e-Minho. Its limits to the north are the river Minho, which establishes part of the border with Spain, to the south the river Douro and the mountains of Freita, Arada and Montemuro, to the east the mountains of Peneda, Gerês, Cabreira and Marão and to the west the Ocean Atlantic. In terms of geographic area, it is the largest Portuguese Demarcated Region, and one of the largest in Europe.
The natural conditions of this region are ideal for the production of excellent white wines, as well as sparkling wines and brandies. Vinho Verde sparkling wines have revealed a surprising quality, which is not unrelated to the fact that the Region produces great wines which, due to their natural freshness and low alcohol content, show enormous potential for producing good sparkling wines. The natural acidity content of pomace and wines from the Region, as well as their organoleptic characteristics, show excellent technical conditions for the production of great pomace spirits, from the distillation of pomace, and excellent wine spirits, the result of the distillation of wines.
Orographically, the region appears as "a vast amphitheater that, from the seafront, gradually rises inland" (Amorim Girão), exposing the entire area to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, a phenomenon reinforced by the orientation of the valleys of the main rivers, which running from east to west facilitate the penetration of sea winds. This Atlantic influence, the soils mostly of granite origin, the mild climate and high rainfall, translate into the freshness, lightness and elegance of the wines from this region.
However, variations in soil typology and microclimates justify the division of the region into nine sub-regions, with different varieties recommended for the production of wines, sparkling wines and spirits.
