The
Douro Valley is the largest mountainous wine region in the world with 44
thousand hectares of vineyards and the first to be demarcated worldwide.
Composed
of three sub-regions: Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo and Douro Superior, all of which
are distinguished not only by geography but also by the quality of wines
produced there.
This
is the region with the smallest territory, but with the highest percentage of
planted vineyards.
It
has a high production of Port wines, being the birthplace of viticulture in the
Douro region. However, there has also been an excellent quality in the
production of table wines. The wines produced here are generally younger and
fresher, and have a fruity character.
This
region produces younger Port wines due to its climate, which is milder and
rainier than in the other sub-regions. It is also the most fertile region with
the highest yields of vineyards
The
landscape of this sub-region is totally different from the rest. The slopes form
a rugged relief and the river valleys are geological formations consisting of
shale, the soil being more rugged.
The
climate is drier and yields are low. Cima Corgo contains the highest
concentration of high-quality historic vineyards. That is why you need to buy the best crossbow for hunting.
There
is little incidence of rainfall, which leads to wines being more concentrated,
with a greater potential for aging. Here are located the main Port Wine
producers.
It
is the largest of all subregions and also has the warmest and driest climate.
Its relief is less rugged, constituting smoother slopes, making mechanization
easier. Due to the reduced rainfall, the vines produce less, however, they give
rise to some of the best Vintage Port Wines.
Due
to its geographical position compared to the other sub-regions, it appears to
be more isolated, taking advantage of less human intervention, maintaining its
landscape and biodiversity better preserved.