VINHO VERDE RISING — Rachel von Sturmer

The white wines of Vinho Verde have a reputation: they're spritzy, light, and refreshing. But lately, there's been rising interest in the wine world as quality improves.

If you've been looking for a wine to while away the Summer heat, say hello to 'veen-o vaird'. Or, 'veen-o vair-day', if you prefer. In the glass, this lower alcohol wine can be shockingly zesty and flavourful with lime, melon, kiwi, and a uniquely juicy salinity. Just remember that some wines are meant to be enjoyed in their youth, and this is one of them.

The vines are located in the far northwest of Portugal on the Atlantic coast, a surprisingly mild and verdant area with plenty of rain and lush river valleys.

You might see VV labelled on the bottle as Vinho Verde DO (for Denomination of Origin) or Minho GI (for Geographical Indication).

The wine regions of Portugal. Got them all? Good

This is a hotspot for native grapes, some with challenging names, which helps to explain why we don't often hear about them. Wines are often blends of several grapes, but increasingly producers are releasing 100% varietal wines. Some white grapes you'll encounter are: Alvarinho (kin to Spain's Albarino; intense aroma, complex, floral), Arinto (minerality, vibrant acidity), Loureiro (meaning 'laurel leaf'; similarly floral nose to Gewurz), and Trajadura (peach, lower acidity, full bodied, adds weight to blends).

Although there are over 2000 brands made in the region, here in Canada there are two exports that dominate the market: Casal Garcia and Gazela, which are both appealingly light on the pocketbook. That's starting to change though, there's a new push to bring in more selection. The people demand Vinho Verde!

A word you might see on VV label's is Quinta ('kin-ta'), which means estate or farm.

You want sub-regions, you get sub-regions! To the North: Minho River, South: Douro River, West: Atlantic Ocean, & East: the Marao Mtns

Notable Vinho Verde Wines to Buy:

Via Latina Vinho Verde DO Loureiro 2015: A rosey floral on the nose of this spritzy, high acidity sipper made by a wine co-op. Green mango and apple notes are the perfect antidote to rich, high fat dishes. 100% Loureiro.

Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde DO 2014: A winningly steely blend of Loureiro and Alvarinho with flashy saline acidity, and peaches 'n cream textured palate.

Quinta de Azevedo Vinho Verde DO 2014: Silky gunmetal and very, very mineral, with a touch of lime peel, and downright salty in the best kind of way. 95% Loureiro, 5% Arinto.

Pluma Alvarinho Vinho Regional Minho 2015: Yellow flowers are the lead into this satiny, juicily acidic wine. Lots of tasty white peach on the palate. 100% Alvarinho.

Tapada Do Marques Vinho Verde DO Arinto 2015: Green melon, tropical kiwi, and green apple skin are balanced by an appealing bitterness and white floral perfume. 100% Arinto.

Have you ever tried Vinho Verde? Do tell in the comments below!

Cheers,

Rachel

Photos courtesy of Vinho Verde & Wines of Portugal