Colares Wine

Colares is one of the most interesting wine sub-regions of the wider Lisbon area, or perhaps the whole of Portugal!

Colares is renowned for its use of rare, native grape varieties, especially Ramisco (for red wines) and Malvasia (for white wines). These varieties have been cultivated in the region for centuries.

The region boasts a distinctive terroir, characterized by its sandy soils, which are highly resistant to phylloxera, a vine pest that devastated many European vineyards in the 19th century. This allowed Colares to maintain its original European vine stock.

Located near the Atlantic coast, the climate of Colares is significantly influenced by the ocean. The maritime climate contributes to the unique flavor profile of its wines, often marked by a fresh and slightly saline character.

Traditional winemaking methods are still practiced in Colares. For instance, the Ramisco grapes are often foot-trodden in open stone lagares, a method that has been used for centuries.

The Colares wine region is relatively small, and many of the vineyards are operated by local, often family-run, producers. This artisanal approach contributes to the uniqueness and limited availability of Colares wines.

The cultivation of vines in sandy soils and the region’s specific microclimate pose unique challenges for viticulture, making the production process more labor-intensive and contributing to the distinctiveness of the wines.

The wine history of Colares dates back several centuries, making it not only an important part of Portuguese wine heritage but also a region of historical significance in European viticulture.

Due to its small size and limited production, Colares wines are often considered hidden gems among wine enthusiasts, prized for their rarity and unique taste.

Wineries

• Adega de Colares is an historical wine producer cooperative in the centre of Colares that offers tours and tastings, where you can try their Arenae red, Malvasia white and also their Chão Rijo range of table wines.
• Casal Santa Maria is an excellent winery nearby that does tastings and events.
• Beira Mar wine cellars is worth a visit, and houses my personal favourite local wine Colares Chitas.
• Viúva Gomes is a very historical winery with tastings and a shop, and good wines.
• Slightly further north, Haja Cortezia is an excellent winery in the region that produces very good light reds and classic whites.
• See https://www.madaboutsintra.com/wine_tasting.html for more information