Beira Interior, located in the eastern heart of Portugal, is one of the country’s most underrated wine regions. Surrounded by the Serra da Estrela, Serra da Marofa, and Serra da Gardunha mountain ranges, this region’s high-altitude vineyards produce wines with freshness, elegance, and a distinct sense of place.
Beira Interior is divided into three sub-regions—Cova da Beira, Castelo Rodrigo, and Pinhel—each contributing unique characteristics to the wines. Its viticulture is deeply rooted in tradition, with many vineyards containing century-old vines and native varieties, reflecting the resilience and heritage of the land.
Beira Interior’s terroir is defined by its high altitudes, which range from 400 to 700 meters above sea level. The mountainous terrain creates a cooler climate with significant diurnal temperature variation, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic expression in the grapes.
Winemaking in Beira Interior dates back to Roman times, with many traditional practices still in use today. The region’s old vines, some over a century old, produce low yields of high-quality grapes. In recent decades, innovative winemakers have embraced modern techniques to bring the region’s wines to a global audience while preserving its authenticity.
Still Reds:
Beira Interior’s reds are marked by vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and flavors of red berries, herbs, and spice, making them ideal for aging.
Still Whites:
The whites are fresh and aromatic, often with citrus, floral, and mineral notes, showcasing the high-altitude terroir.
Rosés:
Delicate and refreshing, Beira Interior’s rosés offer bright red fruit flavors and crisp acidity.