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Stretching up the Rio Douro in the north of
Portugal into the Transmontana area is the Trás-os-Montes district. Wide
ranges of wine come from this region. The region produces from somewhat
coarse and very alcoholic wine to light sparkling and semi-sweet wine.
Regional labels are Quinta dos Bons Ares, Tavedo, Três Bagos, and
Valle Pradinhos .
Chaves (IPR)
This area has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period. The two
municipalities included are Chaves and Vila Pouca de Aguiar. The best
vineyards are in the area of Ribeira de Oura on the slopes of the River
Tamega. The region is also famous for its Spa waters. The red wine is firm
and dry with some body.
Planalto Mirandes (IPR)
Bordered on the east by Spain it covers the area of the upper part of the
River Douro taking in the municipalities of Freixo de Espada à Cinta,
Miranda do Douro, Moncorvo, Mogadoura and Vimioso. Some of the inhabitants
of the area speak in a strange dialect called "Mirandês".
The upper section of the river is now a Nature Reserve. The red wine is
light, nicely palatable and ages well. The white wine is lively, fresh,
and a slight petulance.
Valpaços (IPR)
The area lends itself to be described as a plateau with very cold winters
and warm dry summers. The towns covered are Macedo de Cavalheiras,
Mirandela, Murça, Valpaços and Vinhas. Its red wines are light, fruity in
aroma and dry, often taken as a companion to a special cake from the region
known as "Folar".
Varosa (IPR)
An area that covers the municipalities of Armamar, Lamego and Tarouca, with
attractive terraced vineyards forming large country estates. The red wine is
ruby, fresh and fruity, whilst the white is crisp, somewhat sharp and with
acidity. The labels to try are Cerceal and Murganheira.
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