Lisboa V.R. wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Vinho Regional

The Lisboa V.R. appellation stretches along Portugal's Atlantic coast north of the Tagus estuary, on territory once known as Estremadura. It forms the broadest regional framework in the area, encompassing nine more restrictive appellations of origin — among them Bucelas, Colares, Carcavelos, Alenquer, Arruda, Torres Vedras, Lourinhã, Óbidos and Encostas de Aire — for which it provides more flexible production rules. The Serra de Montejunto hills separate a coastal strip exposed to Atlantic winds and sea spray from a more sheltered inland area with a transitional Mediterranean climate. Soils are fairly varied, combining clay and limestone, with clay-sandy sectors and occasional alluvial pockets depending on location. The specifications allow a broad range of grape varieties, both Portuguese and international: arinto, fernão pires, malvasia and vital for the whites, castelão, aragonez, touriga nacional, touriga franca and trincadeira for the reds.

The wines of this appellation

Under the Lisboa V.R. appellation, producers make white, red and rosé wines, as well as sparkling wines. The whites, made notably from arinto, fernão pires and vital, are marked by freshness, lively acidity and aromas of citrus and white-fleshed fruit; they are best enjoyed young, with fish and seafood. The reds, based on castelão, aragonez, touriga nacional and touriga franca, show a deep colour, supple tannins and notes of red and black fruit, sometimes spiced; the more structured cuvées reward a few years of ageing and pair well with poultry, red meat and game. The rosés, bright and fruity, are served chilled as an aperitif or with light dishes. This range of styles reflects the flexibility of the regional specifications, which leave ample room for grape varieties and terroir to express themselves.