Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
arid terrain that somehow produces something so flavorful—and visitors can't help but
wonder: How do they do it?
The heart of the Douro is characterized by microclimates. A few miles can make a
tremendous difference in terms of temperature, precipitation, humidity, and farming con-
ditions. Even within the same vineyard, each parcel of land has its own characteristics.
These subtle changes infuse the grapes with completely different aromas and flavors.
Over the years, vintners have learned to micromanage their grapes, fine-tuning specific
qualities to get the very best port for their conditions.
Near Porto, the Douro has moderate temperatures and a fair amount of precipitation.
The vineyards you see north of Porto produce not port, but “green wine” (
vinho
verde
—Portugal's refreshing and sprightly light white wine). About 55 miles inland,
around Mesão Frio, chains of mountains stretch to the north and south. East of here, the
climate changes dramatically, becoming very hot and dry in summer, with heavy rainfall
and extreme cold in winter.
