Denominação de Origem Controlada
The Douro D.O.C. appellation lies in northeastern Portugal, along the Douro river and its tributaries, between the Marão and Montemuro mountain ranges and the Spanish border. The vineyard area, covering around 44,000 hectares, is divided into three sub-regions: Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo and Douro Superior. The soils are predominantly schistous, with pockets of granite at the region's edges. The Marão and Montemuro ranges shield the region from Atlantic influence, giving it a continental climate marked by hot, dry summers and harsh winters. A wide range of grape varieties is authorised here, with the red Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca dominating plantings, alongside white varieties such as Gouveio, Rabigato, Viosinho and Malvasia Fina. The Douro is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world, its boundaries dating back to 1756. The Douro D.O.C. designation covers the still wines produced within this same region, as distinct from Porto, the fortified wine made on the same territory.
Grape varieties: Vins rouges : touriga nacional, touriga francesa, tinta baroca
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Douro D.O.C. produces mostly red wines, powerful and concentrated, with a deep colour. Their aromas of ripe black fruit, blackcurrant, blackberry and plum are joined by floral notes of violet, spice and, where oak ageing is used, notes of chocolate and roasting. Their tannic structure is firm and their ageing potential generally high, with tannins softening over time as the fruit takes on riper notes. The white wines, from vines often planted at altitude on schistous soils, stand out for their freshness and minerality, with citrus and stone-fruit aromas. The rosés show a bright ruby colour, aromas of red fruit such as strawberry and raspberry, medium body and lively acidity. The reds pair readily with red meat, game and matured cheeses; the whites suit fish and shellfish; the rosés go well with light dishes and grilled food.
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