Routes

TERRITORY

It is in the north center of Portugal in the province of Beira Alta that we find the region of Dão wines. Established in 1908, it was the first demarcated region of non-liqueur wines of the country. It is a territory that spans mountains and valleys, but that is sheltered by more prominent mountains that surround it: the imposing Serra da Estrela, Caramulo, Nave and Buçaco. Three major rivers run through this winding granitic soil of the region: Dão, Mondego and Alva. In the sunny slopes and subject to the coarseness of the soil, the vines appear sublime and vigorous. They are mainly grown between 400 and 500 meters of altitude, in the seven sub-regions: Alva, Besteiros, Castendo, Serra da Estrela, Silgueiros, Terras de Azurara and Terras de Senhorim.

WINES

The rugged terrain, predominantly granitic soils and microclimate variations influence the nature of the vineyards, providing particular characteristics to the wines of this region. But this differentiation is also due to the traditional varieties grown in the territory, including Touriga Nacional, the most noble among the reds, Alfrocheiro, Aragonez (Tinta Roriz) and Jaen, and the whites Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Bical or Barcelo. Velvety and full-bodied, with exceptional acidity, red wines have great aging potential. Whites, rosé and sparkling wines have fruity aromas and great freshness.

EXPERIENCES

Walk the paths of the hills and the banks of rivers and soak up the natural beauty. Explore the corners of the historic villages, taste the Dão wine on farms and wineries. Climb Serra da Estrela and feel the tranquility of the landscape that is lost on the horizon. Visit Viseu, Penalva do Castelo, Board, Santa Comba Dao or Gouveia. Taste the cheese from Serra da Estrela, the Bravo apple from Esmolfe, the goat or sausages. Proposals abound to visit and let yourself be enchanted by this region.