Varietal Expressions

Portugal

Best known for its port dessert wine, Portugal is also home to some seriously worthwhile—though frequently overlooked—red and white table wines. This small country on the Iberian Peninsula has a wide range of climates, allowing it to produce everything from light and crisp whites in the Atlantic-cooled northwest to ripe and juicy reds in the hot and hilly Douro Valley. What often sets apart Portuguese wines is that they are often made from local grapes rather than more familiar international varieties. Difficult to pronounce (but a joy to drink!), common varietals include Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão, and Loureiro.