Bairrada
The Bairrada Region is a demarcated wine area located in the central region of Portugal, between the cities of Coimbra and Aveiro. It is a region known both for its wine production and its gastronomy and cultural traditions.
1. Location and Climate - Bairrada is located in the province of Beira Litoral, covering parts of the districts of Aveiro, Coimbra and Leiria. The climate in the region is moderate, with an Atlantic influence, characterized by mild winters and cool summers, with a good temperature range between day and night during grape maturation.
2. Soil and Terroir - The soils of Bairrada are predominantly clay-limestone, with some areas of sandy soils. These characteristics combined with the climate provide ideal conditions for the cultivation of various grape varieties, especially for the production of quality sparkling wines and red wines.
3. Grapes - The most common grape varieties grown in Bairrada include Baga, which is the emblematic grape variety of the region, as well as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (or Aragonez), Castelão (or Periquita) for red wines, and Maria Gomes (or Fernão Pires) and Bical for white wines.
4. Wines - Bairrada is recognized for its full-bodied and elegant red wines, produced mainly from the Baga grape variety. White wines are fresh and aromatic, while sparkling wines have gained prominence due to their quality, often being produced using the traditional method (Champenoise).
5. Wine tourism - The Bairrada region offers several wine tourism experiences, with wineries and farms that welcome visitors for wine tastings, visits to vineyards and aging cellars. Furthermore, Bairrada is famous for its oven-roasted suckling pigs, a local gastronomic delicacy.
6. Events and Festivals - Bairrada is the stage for several events related to wine and gastronomy throughout the year, including the Bairrada and Leitão Wine Fair, which is one of the most important events in the region.
