Beira Interior organic wine

The Beira Interior wine-growing region combines a number of opposites that bring great advantages in terms of wine production, especially organic wine production. It is the large temperature differences between very cold winters and hot summers, and at altitudes around 700 m also between day and night. As a result, the vegetation and ripening period for the grapes is shorter. The soils in the vineyards consist largely of weathered granite and weathered slate, but also sandy, permeable soils rich in minerals.

Portugal's highest mountains, including the Torre at 1,993 m in the Sierra de Estrela, not only guarantee an adequate water supply all year round, but also an impressive, varied landscape with deep valleys and fertile plains.  The vineyards are at an altitude of 400 to 750 m.

The climate in the Beira Interior is continental with Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. In connection with the geologically favorable conditions, numerous, very noteworthy wines, especially organic wines, which thrive here in an intact nature, safe from foreign, unwanted influences, have been produced here for several years. They are true treasures, the white wines are generally lean, fine, with beautiful mineral nuances and are distinctly fruity. The red wines are complex, intensely colored, rich with a firm structure, lots of fruit and tannin. If stored appropriately, they are durable and offer great enjoyment.

The wine-growing region Beira Interior has around 16,000 hectares of vineyards, which are mainly planted with native grape varieties, but also with international grape varieties.

Portuguese grape varieties                                         Vinegrowing Subzones within der Region of Beira Interior

• Siria
• Arinto
• Malvasia
• Marufo
• Bastardo
• Alfrocheiro
• Touriga National
• Trincadeira
• Fonte Cal
• Caladoc
• Camarate
• Jaen
• Tinta Baroca
• Tinta Carvalha
• Rabo de Ovelha
• Fernao Pires
• Encruzado

International grape varieties

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Cabernet Franc
• Merlot
• Syrah
• Chadonnay
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Semillon