Bairrada region

Home to the famous Portuguese roasted suckling pig known as leitão, Bairrada is another region with a very strong Atlantic coastal influence. Nestled between Dão and the coast, red wines here are made from the Baga grape, and has great aging potential.

There is a minerality in the wines that comes not only from the maritime climate but the clay-limestone soils. As one of the first regions to produce sparkling wines, Bairrada is the go-to for Portuguese bubble seekers. Sparkling wines (vinho espumante) are made in both the classic (método clássico), as well as pet nat (método ancestral) styles.

The primary white grape variety is Maria Gomes (called Fernão Pires elsewhere), and others include Arinto, Bical, Cercial and Rabo de Ovelha. For the reds, Baga dominates the vineyards, and is joined by Alfrocheiro, Tinta Pinheira, and Touriga Nacional.