Portugal, a land of contrasts and diversity, is home to one of the most fascinating and oldest vineyards in Europe. With its spectacular landscapes, indigenous grape varieties, and traditional winemaking techniques, the Portuguese vineyard offers wine enthusiasts worldwide an unparalleled sensory experience. Portugal is the 10th largest wine producer globally and the 5th largest in Europe. Its vineyard is composed of 14 regional wine zones and has 31 appellations of origin (Denominação de Origem Controlada).
The Richness of the Terroirs From north to south, Portugal boasts a multitude of wine regions, each endowed with a unique microclimate and geological characteristics. Among the most famous is the Douro region, the birthplace of Port wine, which amazes with its terraced vineyards clinging to the steep slopes of the valleys. Further south, the sun-drenched Alentejo produces full-bodied and aromatic wines. From the freshness of Minho to the mountainous landscapes of Dão, each region offers a palette of flavors and styles that reflect the diversity and richness of the Portuguese wine terroir.
An Abundance of Indigenous Grape Varieties The Portuguese vineyard also stands out for its great variety of indigenous grape varieties, some of which are unique in the world. Among the 343 grape varieties cultivated in the country (149 white and 194 red), more than 250 are indigenous: a genetic treasure where varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Baga, Alvarinho, and Fernão Pires fully express their potential in wines of great finesse and complexity.
88% of the Production Area with IGP or DOC (Equivalent to AOP) Main red grape varieties: Tempranillo (11%), Touriga Nacional (7%), Baga (4%), Touriga Franca (8%), Castelão (5%), Trincadeira (4%). Main white grape varieties: Fernão Pires (7%), Loureiro (4%), Alvarinho (2%), Arinto (1%), Encruzado (1%), Bical (1%).
A History of Tradition and Innovation Rooted in a centuries-old wine tradition, Portugal has skillfully combined ancestral know-how with modern techniques to produce high-quality wines. Careful winemaking methods, such as short maceration for red wines and tank fermentation for white wines, preserve the freshness and authenticity of Portuguese wines while reflecting the unique identity of each terroir.
International Recognition With nearly 320 million liters exported in 2023, generating a revenue of 928 million euros, Portugal holds a prominent position on the global wine scene. Its wines, appreciated for their quality and diversity, captivate consumers worldwide, with key markets including the United States (11-12%), France (11%), the United Kingdom (10%), Brazil (8%), and Canada (5%).
Winemaking Techniques Red wine vinification in Portugal is generally short, lasting 8 to 12 days, sometimes less, as post-fermentation maceration is almost never practiced. The draining occurs in the liquid phase (density around 995-1000) to avoid excessive extraction. Barrelling usually takes place after malolactic fermentation. Aging typically lasts from 12 to 24 months, sometimes extending from 18 to 24 months.
For white wines, malolactic fermentation is rarely performed to preserve their acidity. Often, fermentation starts in tanks for lots destined to be aged in barrels, with barrelling occurring in the second part of the vinification to reduce microbial risks.
The Advantages of Saury Barrels for Portuguese Wines:
- Respect for the Terroir: Saury barrels are designed to preserve and accentuate the unique characteristics of each terroir, offering interesting complexity and aromatic depth.
- Balance and Harmony: Thanks to precise toasting control, Saury barrels ensure a harmonious balance between wood and fruit, without overpowering the natural aromas of the wine.
- Adaptability: The different pre-toasting and toasting options allow for adaptation to the specific needs of each grape variety and wine style, promoting personalized aging.
The Portuguese vineyard is a true cultural and oenological treasure, with each bottle telling a story of terroir, tradition, and innovation. From the steep hills of the Douro to the sunny beaches of the Algarve, each glass of Portuguese wine transports us to the heart of this land of emotions and flavors.
Presentation of Saury Cooperage Agent: Mathieu Piedade
After earning a university degree in logistics in France, Mathieu chose to give new momentum to his professional life in 2007 by moving to Portugal to work in the vineyards with his father. His father had acquired an estate of about 8 hectares in the Douro wine region in the 1970s. He then ventured into viticulture and built a cellar to make his own wine. Drawing on this paternal heritage, Mathieu enrolled in an oenology degree program at UTAD in Portugal. He graduated in 2011 and became an oenologist. He honed his skills for nearly ten years between Portugal and France, notably in Burgundy, his native region, and in the northern Rhône Valley, where he managed a family estate for eight years. In 2022, Mathieu decided to return to live in Portugal. He then joined the Saury teams as an agent and collaborated on the development and promotion of the cooperage, already well-established and recognized for the quality of its barrels, on Iberian soil.
