Vinho Verde is the protected designation of origin for a special type of wine, produced in the far-north regions of Portugal.
Although it literally translates to "green wine", the name is supposed to mean "young wine", as it is usually not allowed much time to mature and is consumed soon after bottling. It may be red, white or rosé, as well as sparkling, late harvest or a brandy, however its most common form is an almost semi-sparkling white. Its slight effervescence is due to a special type of in-bottle fermentation that is usually regarded as a wine fault, but which in the case of the Vinho Verde works in its advantage.
The Vinho Verde is light and fresh, perfect to accompany almost any fish dish, with its natural acidity and fruity and floral aromas being one of the best drinks to have in the summer - especially if you're sitting at a beach bar and drinking it chilled.
In fact, one of our favourite places to have one is overlooking the Caparica Beach at Praia - Sea Salt and Pepper.
It's also fast becoming an international sensation as the world catches up to the wonders of Vinho Verde - Condé Nast has even included it in its Where to Find the Best Wines in the World Right Now list!
