Red and white grape varieties to discover

Portugal is a treasure trove for wine lovers, blessed with an impressive diversity of native grape varieties that give our wines a unique and unmistakable identity. On the Bons Bagos blog, we want to take you on a journey through the most popular red and white grape varieties in our country, suggesting some exceptional examples available in our catalogue so that you can taste the essence of Portugal in every bottle.

Popular Red Grape Varieties of Portugal

Portuguese red wines are known for their structure, complexity and aging capacity. Here are three of the most emblematic grape varieties:

1. Touriga Nacional : Considered by many to be the queen of Portuguese red grape varieties, Touriga Nacional is famous for its intense and complex aromas, typically floral (violet) and ripe black fruits. Originally from Dão, but now planted throughout the country, it produces full-bodied wines with firm tannins and excellent ageing potential. It is a fundamental grape variety in both Douro and Dão table wines and Port wine.
   • Bons Bagos Suggestion : To experience the elegance of Touriga Nacional, we suggest the 100 Hectares Touriga Nacional 2023. A wine that showcases the freshness and complexity of this variety in the Douro.
2. Aragonez (Tinta Roriz) : Known as Tinta Roriz in the Douro and Dão, and Aragonez in the South (especially Alentejo), this Iberian grape variety (Tempranillo in Spain) is extremely versatile. It produces wines with good structure, present but elegant tannins, and aromas of red fruits such as plum and blackberry, sometimes with hints of spice. It is crucial in Douro and Port blends, and shines on its own in Alentejo and Dão wines.
   • Bons Bagos Suggestion : Discover the Alentejo expression of this variety with Casa Relvas Aragonez 2021. A wine that highlights the fruit and spice notes typical of the variety.
3. Alicante Bouschet: Despite its French origins, this red grape variety (with red-coloured pulp and juice) found its home in the Alentejo. It produces wines with a very deep colour, concentrated and structured, with aromas of wild berries, vegetal notes and sometimes cocoa. It is ideal for ageing and is a perfect accompaniment to intense dishes.
   • Bons Bagos suggestion : Taste the strength and color of this variety in Casa Relvas Alicante Bouschet 2021. An excellent example of the adaptation of this variety to the Alentejo terroir.

Popular White Grape Varieties of Portugal

Portuguese white wines are increasingly appreciated for their freshness, aromatic diversity and gastronomic potential. We highlight three essential varieties:

1. Alvarinho : The star of the Vinho Verde region, especially the Monção and Melgaço sub-region. It produces intensely aromatic wines, with notes of citrus (grapefruit, lime), floral (orange blossom) and stone fruit (peach, apricot). It is characterized by its vibrant acidity, structure and minerality, with excellent aging potential.
   • Bons Bagos suggestion : Experience the freshness and intensity of Bagagem Alvarinho 2022. A wine from the Monção and Melgaço sub-region that captures the essence of this grape variety.
2. Arinto : One of the most versatile and widespread white grape varieties in Portugal, especially in the Bucelas region (Lisbon). It is known for its vibrant natural acidity, which gives it great freshness and longevity. Its aromas are typically citrus (lemon, lime) and mineral, sometimes with notes of green apple. It produces elegant wines, both young and aged in barrels.
   • Bons Bagos suggestion : To appreciate the elegance and acidity of Arinto, we recommend Ode Arinto 2022. A wine that shows the potential of the variety in the Tejo region.
3. Encruzado : The queen of white grape varieties in the Dão region. It is responsible for some of the most complex and elegant white wines in Portugal. It has delicate aromas, ranging from floral to citrus and mineral, with notes of stone fruits. It has an excellent structure, balanced acidity and adapts wonderfully to barrel aging, gaining complexity and aging potential.
   • Bons Bagos Suggestion : Discover the nobility of Encruzado with Quinta de Lemos Dona Paulette 2020. A wine from Dão that demonstrates the elegance and complexity of this chosen grape variety.

This is just a small sample of Portugal’s wine wealth. We invite you to explore these and other varieties in our catalogue at Bons Bagos and discover your next favourite Portuguese wines!