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The Bairrada wine region is located in the north of Portugal, south of Vinho Verde, to the south-west of Douro and bordering the region of Dao to the east.
Bairrada is a red-wine powerhouse, producing notably smooth, suave, deeply coloured, concentrated wines, the best examples of which have the capacity to age in bottle for two decades or more.
Bairrada is unique in Portugal in that one grape dominates the wine production. Over 75% of the wines are red, made principally from the Baga grape. Wines from Baga are typified by saturated colour, high acidity (often accentuated by fermentation on the stalks) and a fiercely tannic character, requiring full ripeness when picked, and long barrel maturation.
Mateus Rosé has long been the most famous export from Bairrada, yet wine styles have gradually evolved with more emphasis on softer, fruitier and readily approachable wines. Other grape varieties are making inroads, including Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These are used in blends with Baga, to add softness and fruitiness.
White grapes, mostly Fernão Pires (locally known as Maria Gomes) and Bical, are mostly used for traditional method sparkling wines. Still white wines are full-bodied and fruity with pronounced citrus-blossom character.