Red wine from Portugal

Red wine Portugal – a diverse range of characterful wines

Portuguese red wine: an insider tip with a long tradition

Portugal is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world. The Phoenicians brought the first vines, which were later cultivated by the Greeks and Romans. The Romans were quick to recognise the potential of this fertile land, with its hilly vineyards and wide range of grape varieties. Today, the country is a modern producer with a remarkable range of red wines, from fruity and light to powerful and complex.

Wines with origin and signature

Red wine from Portugal is not only of convincing quality, but also of individuality. Authentic grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Amarela or Trincadeira, coupled with international classics such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, produce powerful cuvées with unique depth and personality. In combination with the climate and soil, wines are created that have an unmistakable character and harmonious taste.

Regions with an international reputation

Douro – Portugal's legendary wine river

The Douro region in the north of Portugal is the oldest protected wine region in the world. In addition to the famous Port wine, dry red wines with plenty of structure, expression and depth are also produced here. Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional are among the most important grape varieties in the region. The steep slopes and hot, dry climate give the wines intense aromas and a high ageing potential.

Alentejo – wide landscapes, well-rounded wines

The Alentejo in the south of the country has become a hotspot for Portuguese red wine. Thanks to modern technology and ancient knowledge, velvety, full-bodied wines with aromas of dark fruits, chocolate and spices are produced here. Grape varieties such as Aragonez, Syrah and Trincadeira dominate here and deliver wines with soft tannins and harmonious alcohol content.

Tejo and Lisbon – underrated diversity

The Tejo and Lisbon wine regions are located in the centre of the country. The proximity to the Atlantic ensures cooler nights and thus freshness and elegance in the wine. Here you will find fruity, drinkable reds that are ideal for everyday enjoyment – and often score highly in terms of value for money.

Portugal's unique grape varieties

Touriga Nacional – the national icon

Touriga Nacional is at the heart of many of Portugal's great wines. It produces dark, concentrated wines with a bouquet of blackberries, violets and herbs, and impresses with its firm structure and longevity.

Tinta Amarela – spice and depth

This indigenous grape variety gives the wine notes of ripe cherries, herbs and a hint of smoke. Its elegant character makes it the ideal cuvée partner for Touriga Franca or Tinta Roriz.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah – the international addition

In regions such as Alentejo or Douro, the classic Cabernet Sauvignon is often combined with Portuguese varieties. Syrah (sometimes called Shiraz in Portugal) also delivers intense aromas of dark fruits, pepper and herbs – ideal for full-bodied wines with an international style. In addition, Portuguese white wines are becoming increasingly important as they are adding a special touch to the wine market with their unique grape varieties and characteristics.

Wine and food: delightful combinations

Meat dishes and full-bodied red wines

A classic roast beef with rosemary potatoes calls for a full-bodied wine with good tannins. A Douro red wine made from Touriga Nacional and Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal for this. Game dishes such as venison or lamb also harmonise perfectly with an aromatic Alentejo wine, which has a strong structure and harmonious aromas.

Tapas, chouriço and trincadeira

Fruity wines with a little acidity go well with spicy Portuguese sausages or tapas with grilled vegetables. A young wine from Tejo or Lisbon with trincadeira and syrah brings the necessary freshness to accompany the flavours.

Cheese and red wine – an ideal pairing

A full-bodied red wine with a hint of wood goes perfectly with mature sheep's cheese from the Alentejo. Wines aged in barriques and with a medium alcohol content offer a lot of pleasure on the palate.

Dark chocolate and port

A classic: strong chocolate with a mature red port. A sweet red wine from the Douro with ripe tannins and aromas of plums, vanilla and cherries is also an elegant way to round off a dessert.

Bottle formats, contents and packaging

Portuguese wines are available in different bottle sizes. From the classic 75 cl bottle to half bottles for small occasions or large bottles for parties, you will find the right solution in the range. Many products are offered with attractive labels, informative content about grape varieties and origin, as well as elegant packaging – also ideal as a gift. The prices already include VAT.

Producers with a profile

Whether traditional Herdade, Quinta or young, dynamic wine cooperative – Portuguese wine producers combine craftsmanship, expertise and passion. In the Douro in particular, many businesses rely on natural viticulture. Small quantities, a lot of manual work and a focus on quality instead of quantity characterise many of the best items.

Wine with added value

In addition to pure enjoyment, Portuguese red wine also offers a lot in terms of sensory experience: fascinating aromas, a wide range of grape varieties and a very unique character that makes it stand out compared to other countries. These wines tell stories of the country, its people and traditions – and are still affordable.

FAQ about Portuguese red wine

Which grape varieties are typical for Portuguese red wine?

Typical grape varieties are Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Trincadeira and Aragonez. International varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are also often used.

What is the difference between port and red wine from Portugal?

Port is a fortified sweet wine from the Douro region, while dry red wine from Portugal is produced in many regions and does not contain added alcohol.

Which Portuguese red wine goes well with meat?

A full-bodied red wine from the Alentejo or Douro with Touriga Nacional goes extremely well with lamb, beef or game. Cuvées with Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon are also ideal.

How long can Portuguese red wines be stored?

Many high-quality red wines from Portugal, particularly from the Douro, can be stored for 8–15 years or longer. The prerequisite is a good vintage quality and suitable storage.

Are Portuguese red wines expensive?

Portugal offers an excellent price-performance ratio. Even in the mid-price range, you can find remarkably complex wines with depth, structure and character.