Overview
Alentejo covers much of southern Portugal inland from the coast, a land of cork oak forests, wheat fields, and expansive vineyards under a hot Mediterranean sun. The climate is continental, with long, dry summers, cold winters, and very low rainfall. Vineyards range across flat plains and gentle hills with diverse soils.
The region has become famous for approachable, fruit-forward red blends based on Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet, plus rising plantings of Touriga Nacional and Syrah. Fresh whites from Antão Vaz, Arinto, and Roupeiro complement the warm, generous style.
Key Varietals
- AragonezThe local name for Tempranillo, giving Alentejo reds ripe strawberry, plum, and spice character.
- TrincadeiraA native red variety that adds dark fruit, herbs, and supple tannins to Alentejo blends.
- Alicante BouschetA teinturier grape that deepens color and adds structure to Alentejo red wines.
- Antão VazThe leading white grape, producing ripe, tropical, full-bodied whites with good acidity.
Region snapshot
Climate
Hot Mediterranean continental
Rainfall
300-500 mm annually, very dry
Soil Types
Schist, granite, limestone, and sandy clay
