Ave Wine Region

Ave wine region is one of nine subregions of the Vinho Verde DOC, the largest wine region of Portugal. Vila Nova de Famalico, Fafe, Guimares, Santo Tirso, Trofa, Póvoa de Lanhoso, Vieira do Minho, Póvoa de Varzim, Vila do Conde, and the county of Vizela are all part of the Ave area. Most of the famous vineyards in the area are located around the Ave river which features an irregular landscape with low altitude. The region features low temperatures with ample rainfall around the year. The Ave wine region is mostly known for its unique fresh white wines with intense floral and fruity notes. 

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Ave!

Where is the Ave wine region?

Ave winegrowing area is located in northern Portugal, just 24km south of the town of Braga and 42km north of the city of Porto. The vineyards in the region are concentrated along the watershed of the Ave river and are influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The Ave wine region encompasses Vila Nova de Famalico, Fafe, Guimares, Santo Tirso, Trofa, Póvoa de Lanhoso, Vieira do Minho, Póvoa de Varzim, Vila do Conde, and the county of Vizela.

History of the Ave wine region

Roman literature mentions viticulture in the Vinho Verde region since the middle ages. The Ave wine region has a long and rich history of winemaking, with the first export of wines reaching back to the 12th century. Winemaking techniques evolved with the arrival of the Romans and were later inspired by the Greeks. Wines from the Ave region reached the northern European market in the 17th and 18th centuries and were an important commodity and source of wealth for the Ave region.

The terroir and geography of the Ave wine region

The area's main viticulture is distinguished by an uneven landscape and low altitude. The Atlantic Ocean has a huge influence on the vineyards, with cool winds blowing over the region. The temperature in the region is low in comparison to the rest of Vinho Verde. The area receives average rainfall. Overall, the environment is mild, allowing grapes to ripen late. Grape varietals are carefully selected so that they ripen neither too late nor too early.

Popular grape varieties from the Ave wine region

The major grape varietals grown throughout the Ave wine region are Arinto and Loureiro. These grapes have average maturity favoring the climate of the region. Trajadura is also cultivated in the region as it matures earlier in this mild microclimate. The Trajadura blends perfectly with Arinto and Loureiro. Arinto is an indigenous grape variety unique to Portugal with exceptional aging potential. The white wine is dry with a medium to light body. These wines are fresh with high acidity. The wine gives the note of lemon, apple, tropical fruits, and minerals. 

Food to pair with Ave wine 

Bacalhau

Bacalhau is Portuguese for "cod," and it has long been a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Bacalhau is dried and salted cod that is often utilized in everything from everyday recipes to complex festive dishes. The components were popular because they could be preserved for longer periods of time. The cods are soaked in water before being used in a number of ways. Crispy bolinhos de bacalhau fritters, creamy bacalhau com natas, Bacalhau a bras, and Bacalhau com todos are some of the most popular salt cod dishes in Portugal.

Lobster a l'Americaine

Lobster a l'Americaine is a classic French dish made with lobster flesh, carrots, celery, shallots, tomato paste, garlic, dry white wine, cognac or dry sherry, chicken or fish stock, bay leaves, olive oil, thyme, heavy cream, butter, and chopped parsley.

Traditionally, lobster is cooked in a tomato sauce with shallots, garlic, tarragon, and thyme before being flamed with white wine for a truly fantastic feast. Although cooking the lobster in its shell adds flavor, you can remove it before cooking if you like. 

Pinchitos

Pinchitos are grilled meats strung on wooden sticks and barbecued over charcoal. Spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon are widely used to season meat. This summer dish is hearty, yet it can also be served at any barbecue.

Pinchitos is best complemented with red wines from the Ave wine area and is often served with lemon wedges and bread on the side.

Places to visit in the Ave wine region

Bernardino Machado Museum

The Bernardino Machado Museum is housed in the Baro de Trovisqueira residence, which was erected in the second part of the nineteenth century by José Francisco da Cruz Trovisqueira. The museum was founded in 2001 with close collaboration between the municipality of Vila Nova do Famalico and Bernardino Machado's descendants. The main front is tiled, there is an exquisite wooden staircase, and ornamental painting on the ceiling. The palace was designed in a neoclassical style, with mythological, allegorical, and phytomorphic themes.

Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas

Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas is a breathtaking waterfall located near Ermida in Braga, Portugal. The waterfall is also known as Cascata do Tahiti among locals. The source of the waterfall is the Arado river making the waterfall one of the most stunning waterfalls in the entire Geres. The area is popular among the locals as well as tourists. Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas is an ideal location for recreation. It's also fun to look down the river from the top of the waterfall.

Frequently asked questions about Ave