Bairrada Wines

Bairrada is located just west of Dão. Being close to the Atlantic, rainfall is high which can be a problem for the key variety, Baga. Cantanhede, an unofficial subregion, is located in the warmer south, where this grape does best.

Baga makes wines with high acidity, tannin, a medium body and cranberry, cherry and plum flavours. Baga is a key component of the famous Mateus Rose, prized for its freshness. Other red Portuguese varieties are also grown here including Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro, Jaen and Camarate as well as international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

The whites are made from Maria Gomes (known as Fernão Pires in other parts of Portugal), Bical, Arinto and Cercial. You can also get inexpensive Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay as well as a surprising amount of sparkling wine. Sadly, Barraida wines are not yet that commonly seen outside of Portugal.