Green wine (verde): what is it, features, specifics, famous brands + what and how to drink
Green wine, unlike red and white, owes its name not to the color of the drink at all. In fact, green wine is a young wine that is recommended to be consumed in the first year after bottling.
In Portuguese, it is called Vinho Verde (wine of verde), named after the production region located in northern Portugal, between the Minho and Douro rivers. With a reference to the production technology, which was influenced by local weather conditions.
Features of the terroir
The area where green wine is produced is characterized by a special climate that is not similar to other areas of Spain and Portugal. Here, the influence of air masses from the Atlantic Ocean is strongly felt, which is expressed in a significant level of precipitation.
During the year, their number reaches 1.5-2 thousand millimeters. For comparison: In St. Petersburg, which is considered a "rainy" city, this number is about 700 mm.
High levels of moisture lead to poor ripening of berries: under the influence of dampness, they often rot and become covered with mold.
To somehow deal with this scourge, the locals began to grow grapes on high arched structures - gazebos. And the collection period in the region has always started earlier than in other parts of Portugal. Hence the name of the area, and later - the drink produced in it.
The Vinho Verde region received its official status with clear geographical boundaries in 1908, and in 1926, regulations were drawn up for the characteristics of wines produced here.
Many local beverages belong to the highest category DOC (Denominacao de Origem Controlada - controlled by region and name) and the less prestigious, but no less high-quality VR (Vinho Regional, with protected geographical origin).
By the way, the Vinho Verde wine region is the largest in Portugal (34 thousand hectares). vineyards). hectares), and its products are exported to more than 60 countries.
The specifics of green wines
Grapes harvested ahead of time are characterized by high acidity and low sweetness, so local wines are light, sour, fresh, with a small degree, lively character and aromatic fruit bouquet. Such drinks are usually called mineral.
Previously, they were bottled before the end of the fermentation process, which is why the wines retained "residual carbonation". Today, large companies reproduce this feature artificially by adding carbon dioxide to the drink. And traditional winemakers try to emphasize the "true spirit" of local wine, preserving its natural effervescence.
Although not all Vinho Verde products have a lively and light character. Among the local samples, there are both classic dry and mature wines with long aging. As for the color, it can be anything from light golden to deep crimson. You can recognize Vinho Verde's "green" products by their distinctive elegant bottles - light, light (often transparent), which perfectly emphasize the playful nature of fresh young wine.
Famous brands
In Ukraine, green wines have become especially popular in the last 3-5 years. Therefore, it will not be difficult to find Vinho Verde products. Among the most popular brands with a proven reputation:
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Lua Cheia em Vinhas Velhas
An innovative project created by three friends to unlock the potential of the Douro region.
The most famous wine is Toucas, made from the varieties Loureiro, Trajadura and Arinto.
The white semi-dry drink has an elegant aroma with mineral and citrus notes, a harmonious, fresh fruity taste with light floral tones, a delicate aftertaste and an affordable price.
Maria Bonita wine is also highly appreciated.
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Vercoope
A more experienced, reputable company that has been producing green wines since 1964.
Unites several thousand small farms located in different parts of the region.
Produces mainly light light and rosé drinks from Arinto, Loureiro, Trajadura, Azal Branco varieties.
The most famous wines: Pavao, Verdegar, Terras de Felgueiras.
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Anselmo Mendes
The well-known Portuguese company is named after its founder, a hereditary winemaker and professional oenologist recognized as one of the best in the country.
Produces more mature and robust wines, aged in barrels or steel tanks, with a storage potential of 2-3 years.
What and how to drink green wines
The quality of most green wines (with the exception of aged wines) does not improve over time, so it is not recommended to store them for a long time. Vinho Verde products must be served chilled to 8-10 °C. This temperature will emphasize the fresh, bright, carefree character of the drink.
Fruity mineral wine is soft to drink, ideal as an aperitif on vacation, refreshes well in the heat, and is in harmony with any world cuisine. The best pairings for it are light snacks: salads, fish, seafood, white meat.
Update: 07.02.2020
Category: Wine and Vermouth