The Lisboa wine region stretches along the coastline and north of the capital Lisbon. This hilly area has a soil mainly composed of clay and limestone, with granite in the deeper layers. The abundant sunshine is tempered by the mild influence of the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in elegance in the wines from Lisboa. The entire Lisboa area is classified as 'Vinho Regional', which is similar to the French IGP. Previously known as Estremadura, but due to possible confusion with the arid Spanish region of the same name, the area adopted the name Lisboa.
Lisboa includes 9 DOC regions: Encostas de Aire, Lourinhã, Óbidos, Torres Vedras, Alenquer, Arruda, Colares, Carcavelos and Bucelas
Grapes
In the region it is common to produce wines from several different indigenous grape varieties that are not yet well known in the Netherlands. Consider the white fernão pires, vital, arinto rabo de ovelha (literally “sheep's tail”) and the blue grapes Castelão (periquita), camarate and preto-martinho. Sometimes they are supplemented with international grape varieties.
Arinto is one of the most common white grape varieties in the Lisboa region. It is known for its fresh acidity and citrusy aromas, and it is often used to produce refreshing white wines.
Castelão, also known as Periquita, is one of the most common red grape varieties in the Lisboa region. It produces wines with fruity aromas and a pleasant structure.
