Vinho Verde 2

The style of Vinhos Verdes has historically been light and fresh which is added to by a light sparkle. At less than one bar of CO2 pressure, they do not quite qualify as semi-sparkling wines but do have a subtle effervescence. The white Vinho Verde is very fresh, due to its natural acidity, with fruity and floral aromas that depend on the grape variety. The white wines are lemon- or straw-coloured, around 8.5 to 11% alcohol, and are made from local grape varieties Loureiro, Arinto, Trajadura, Avesso, and Azal. The low alcohol is achieved by low sugar levels due to high rainfall in the region diluting the sugars. Vinho Alvarinho is made from Alvarinho (Albariño) grapes. It has more alcohol (11.5 to 14%) and ripe tropical aromas. The two most successful white wine varieties of Vinho Verde are Alvarinho and Loureiro. Alvarinho tends to produce low yields and can reach much higher alcohol levels as the grape is widely planted inland between northern Minho and Spanish border. Loureiro produces higher yields but very aromatic wines. Red wines are produced in the region but are a small amount of production due to the high rainfall. Red wine styles tend towards diluted or rustic.