Dão

Dão's vineyards lie from about 200 to 1,000 metres above sea level in north-central Portugal. Many occupy small plots among pine forests, on poor granite soils. Mountains shelter the region from maritime influence and harsher continental conditions. Most rain falls in winter, followed by a hot, dry growing season. Only about five percent of Dão is under vine. Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alfrocheiro and Jaen are the leading red grapes, usually made into blends. These reds may be light, peppery and spicy or fuller and fruitier. Encruzado leads the white grapes and can bring almond-like and citrus notes with a coating texture. Lafões lies in a granite-soil area crossed by the Vouga River. Its notably acidic wines have something in common with those of neighbouring Vinho Verde.