The Winery Vinha do Cercado of Lisboa

Discovering the wine region of Lisboa

Lisboa (formerly Estremadura) is a prolific wine region located at the Center of Portugal's Atlantic coast. Despite being one of the country's most productive winemaking areas, its name remains relatively obscure in wine terms, as its wines have traditionally been labeled with the names of the local sub-regions, which include Alenquer, Bucelas and Colares. The region is also home to Portugal's capital, Lisbon. The region fell under the VR (Vinho Regional) classification until 2008, when the category was renamed IGP (Indicaciones Geográficas Protegidas) to bring it into line with the rest of Europe.

When the switchover happened, the Portuguese wine authorities took the opportunity to rename the Estremadura appellation as "Lisboa", after Lisbon, which marks the region's southern boundary. There are nine DOCs in Lisboa, but many are more famous for their history than their modern wine industry. The most prestigious wines from the region fall under the Alenquer and Bucelas DOCs. The region's position on the coast gives rise to the broad Terroir that shapes the local wine industry.

The Serra de Montejunto hills run North from Lisbon, and effectively divide Lisboa in half. Along the coast, the Atlantic batters the vineyards with high winds and autumn rains, making viticulture a challenge. The most notable DOC on this side of the hills is Colares, which is more famous for its phylloxera-resistant soils than its robust red wines made from Ramisco. The cool, wet conditions also shape the Lourinhã and Óbidos DOCs, famous for brandy and Sparkling wine, respectively.