TERROIR

The natural cradle for Vinhos Verdes

Monção and Melgaço is part of the Demarcated Region of Vinhos Verdes, an area that extends throughout the Northwest of Portugal, commonly known as Entre-Douro-e-Minho. In addition to being the largest demarcated area of national viticulture, it is one of the largest of Europe.

This region enjoys unparalleled natural conditions. Although the mostly granitic soils are fed by high rainfall, the climate is, above all, mild. A special microclimate that combines perfectly with the variations in relief.

Between steep slopes and open valleys, the wines reflect the nuances of the landscape.
In every corner, a possibility of flavor. In each glass, the natural splendor of the region.

TERROIR

Monção and Melgaço: a unique sub-region

The sub-region of Monção and Melgaço is one of the 9 sub-regions of the Vinho Verde Region. It is characterized by having a particular microclimate, largely influenced by its proximity to the south bank of the river Minho and for being located in a mid-slope
area.

Winters are cold, with intermediate precipitation, and summers are hot and dry. The Atlantic influence finds a natural protection in the slope of the territory.

A peculiar combination that offers special conditions for the formation of small, winged and somewhat compact clusters. That’s why the Alvarinho variety is the queen here. Some historical records claim that this variety was born in this territory.

If in the vineyard, the privileged natural condition allows it to reach its full potential, the same can be said of the contribution made by the people who take such good care of it. The birthplace of Alvarinho is here, also because a people dedicated itself to a variety and turned it into an unmistakable symbol of the region.

Terroir

The grapes

Due to the unique natural conditions, early maturing varieties find here ideal conditions to grow. The Alvarinho variety shines above all.

Alvarinho

Considered one of the noblest of Portuguese white grape varieties, it origins wines of unparalleled freshness. Here, in the original territory, where it reaches its maximum potential, its richness offers unprecedented nuances of taste. An enviable balance, a fruity aroma and a lightness that transports us to the rich natural landscape of the region. Its citrine color is the secret of the golden glow of this land.

Trajadura

Another white variety that is born here with great splendor is Trajadura. Unlike Alvarinho, it has higher productivity levels. It does not multiply, therefore, in so many flavor nuances but it gives rise to wines with a delicate and little accentuated aroma. A perfect complement that enriches the offer of this territory.

Vinhão

The viticulture of Monção and Melgaço is not only made of white grape varieties. Vinhão is the most expanded red grape variety of the region. It inspires full-bodied, harmonious and very tasty profiles.

Alvarelhão

A very common variety in this sub-region. Its red profile gives rise to ruby colored wines, with a delicate aroma and harmonious personality.

Pedral

This red variety is recommended in the sub-region. Productive and rustic, its identity inspires wines with a light ruby color, with full-bodied aroma and flavor.

The TERR@ENO platform, developed in partnership with the Escola Superior Agrária, of the Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, brings together institutions and stakeholders in the region in the enhancement and promotion of the landscape and wine production of the sub-regions of Monção & Melgaço and Lima.

TERR@eNO PLATAFORM

Appreciate an incomparable landscape

This project, in addition to providing important economic information and expanding the horizons of Adega de Monção wines, also contributes to a better understanding of the terroir. A fundamental contribution to the construction of strategies that improve the performance of these important wines and, at the same time, respect a natural territory of high beauty and richness.