Tejo

• Fernão Pires: Portugal’s most planted white grape shines in Tejo, producing aromatic wines that range from zesty citrus and herbal to luscious peach and tropical fruit, always with balanced acidity.
• Arinto: Fresh and vibrant, this white grape provides crisp green apple, lemon, and citrus zest flavors, along with lively acidity and excellent aging potential.
• Alvarinho & Verdelho: Alvarinho offers full-bodied whites with peach, passion fruit, and orange blossom, while Verdelho adds mango, papaya, and persistent citrus, both maintaining freshness in Tejo’s warm climate.
• Touriga Nacional: The flagship red delivers deeply colored, full-bodied wines with firm tannins and complex notes of blueberry, plum, and violets.
• Trincadeira: A warm-climate specialist, Trincadeira yields reds with bright raspberry fruit, herbal and spicy notes, and lively acidity for balance.
• Castelão: Rustic and structured, Castelão produces reds with vibrant acidity, flavors of plum and red currant, and a savory, meaty character.
• Aragonês (Tinta Roriz): This versatile red grape adds smooth tannins, robust red fruit, and subtle spice, often featured in blends.
• Cabernet Sauvignon & Chardonnay: International varieties are embraced for familiar, approachable styles—Cabernet brings structure and dark fruit, while Chardonnay ranges from fresh and fruity to creamy and textured.
• Campo do Tejo: An innovative category of crisp, low-alcohol (max 12%) white wines made exclusively from Fernão Pires; light, fresh, and sustainable—an easy-drinking alternative to Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Rosé & Sparkling: Tejo is increasingly recognized for its lively, fruit-forward rosé and vibrant sparkling wines, perfect for modern palates.

The Tejo region's terroir is profoundly influenced by the Tejo River, which moderates temperatures and enhances the area's viticultural diversity. This Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, is ideal for cultivating both indigenous and international grape varieties. The river's proximity lends a cooling effect, crucial for maintaining the grapes' acidity and freshness, imparting vibrant flavors to the wines. Tejo boasts a mosaic of soils, from sandy loam and clay to limestone and schist, providing a nurturing environment for a variety of grapes. This soil diversity contributes to the complexity and distinctiveness of its wines, elevating the aromatic profiles of whites like Fernão Pires and enriching the depth of reds such as Touriga Nacional and Castelão.

Tejo's wineries embody a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing the region's rich history and innovative spirit. Here are some notable producers that illustrate this dynamic:

• Quinta da Alorna: A historic estate since 1723, blending tradition with sustainable practices across 400 acres of vineyards.
• Quinta do Casal Branco: Known for its royal heritage and ancient vines, this estate combines traditional techniques with modern winemaking.
• Fiuza & Bright: A pioneering collaboration that introduced French varietals to Tejo, revitalizing the region's wine scene.
• Casal da Coelheira: A family-owned estate excelling in innovative blends and high-quality wines, rooted in the Charneca region's unique terroir.
• Adega de Almeirim: A cooperative leading in large-volume white wine production, showcasing the value and quality of Tejo's offerings.

Tejo is weaving sustainability into the very fabric of its winemaking identity, driven by its natural resources and a commitment to eco-friendly practices. The region’s dedication to preserving its environment is evident through initiatives like Integrated Pest Management, which reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals by encouraging natural pest control methods. The area’s vast cork forests not only provide sustainable closures but also enhance biodiversity and serve as critical carbon sinks, reinforcing Tejo's focus on ecological balance. The Tejo River plays a vital role in the region's sustainability efforts, with wineries prioritizing water conservation and soil health to protect this precious resource. Many producers engage in dry farming and use organic matter to maintain soil vitality, while renewable energy adoption and eco-friendly packaging further reduce the carbon footprint. Tejo’s commitment to sustainability is recognized through the rigorous national certification program, showcasing the region's dedication to balancing tradition with innovation for a greener future.

Tejo is transforming the wine tourism landscape in Portugal by crafting a dynamic and immersive experience that extends beyond just sipping wine. This region offers a comprehensive cultural journey that ties together its rich history, local cuisine, and natural beauty. The Tejo Wine Route 118, launched in 2021, is a standout feature, guiding visitors through a 150 km stretch adorned with welcoming wineries and breathtaking landscapes. This route not only provides a convenient way to explore the region's diverse wine offerings but also connects travelers with historical landmarks and nature adventures, positioning Tejo as a compelling alternative to more famous wine regions like the Douro. The Tejo experience is enhanced by its emphasis on regional flavors and cultural excursions. Visitors are encouraged to delve into hearty local dishes like Sopa de Pedro and explore the region's historical gems, such as the Convento de Cristo. The region's culinary offerings are perfectly paired with its wines, featuring aromatic whites like Fernão Pires, which complement seafood, and bold reds like Touriga Nacional, which stand up to hearty meat dishes. With its proximity to Lisbon, Tejo is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability in their wine tourism experience.