Overview
Palmela is a DOC within the Setúbal Peninsula, covering sandy and clay-calcareous terrain around the town of Palmela. The climate is warm Mediterranean with maritime influence, producing ripe grapes while preserving acidity. Large diurnal temperature shifts help balance sugar and freshness.
Castelão must make up at least 67 percent of Palmela DOC reds, giving wines with cherry fruit, firm structure, and aging potential. Other permitted varieties include Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, while Fernão Pires and Moscatel appear in whites.
Key Varietals
- CastelãoThe dominant red grape, yielding ripe cherry, firm tannins, and balanced structure in Palmela wines.
- AragonezAdds red fruit, spice, and freshness to blends alongside Castelão.
- Touriga NacionalBrings dark fruit, floral perfume, and aging potential to premium reds.
- Fernão PiresA fragrant white used for fresh, fruity still wines in the DOC.
Region snapshot
Climate
Warm Mediterranean, maritime-influenced
Rainfall
500-700 mm annually
Soil Types
Sandy soils and clay-calcareous
