Lisbon wine region

Travel Guide to Lisbon Wine Region

Toward the north of the city of Lisbon lies a region formerly known as Estremadura, which was renamed Lisbon in 2009. Lisbon wine region is considered to be the heart and soul of the Portuguese winemaking industry. This wine region is well known for producing large quantities of simple yet deliciously flavoured Portuguese wines. Most of these wines are made by local wine cooperatives. Traditionally, these wines are sold in 1.5 or 3-litre flagons known by the locals as ‘Garrafoes’. A trip to Lisbon to experience the local wines and the wine culture is a must for wine lovers from anywhere in the world.

Find out about Wine Tasting & Tours in Lisbon to enjoy if you visit the region.

Coastal wines of Lisbon Wine Region

Lisbon wine region runs along the Atlantic Ocean and this geographically long and thin is surrounded by Tejo, Setúbal, and Bairrada wine regions. The location of Lisbon along the Atlantic coast has a strong influence on the local climate and brings strong winds. Thanks to these winds, the region is dotted with picturesque windmills. The climate of the region and the location of the coastal Lisbon vines means that the vines are somewhat wind stressed. Further inland lies additional rows of vines along the Lisbon hills and mountains. These vines are offered more protection from harsh weather conditions.

Lisbon wine region is made up of nine appellations that are grouped into three different geographical groups. Close to Lisbon are the Bucelas, Colares, and Carcavelos designations. In the middle of Lisbon wine region are the designations of Torres Vedras, Alenquer, Obidos, Arruda, and Lourinha. The north of the region is the designation of Encostas d’Aire.

Of all of these designations, Bucelas is the most prominent because of the distinct style of the white wines produced in the area. These white wines are made using the local Arinto grape variety. Arnito grapes result in a fresh white wine with great longevity. Colares is one of the most unique designations of the region because of its extraordinary Ramisco wines. These wines are planted close to the coast in soil that is loose and sandy.

Grape Varieties

Lisbon Has Wines for Every Palate

Lisbon wine region is known for the production of white, red and rose wines. In certain areas of the region, there is also the production of Brandy and Vinho Leve. The range of wines in this region ensures that there is something for every palate.

Top Wineries to Visit in Lisbon Wine Region

There are abundance of possibilities to taste Lisbon wines in the wine bars of Lisbon. However, we suggest you to take a step out from the vibrant city and taste wines in rural setting.

Quinta Da Almiara

The Quinta Da Almiara is a family-run winery in Torres Vedras. This beautiful winery is set on 160 hectares of land. The winemaking team is dedicated to the production of only the best and highest quality Portuguese wines. The Quinta Da Almiara welcomes all visitors to experience this wonderful winery and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a traditional Lisbon meal.

Vale De Cortem Vinhos Biologicos

The Vale De Cortem Vinhos Biologicos is a small winery on the west coast of the Lisbon wine region. This winery produces only high-quality organic wines. These wines are made using both international and Portuguese grape varieties. The cellar door at the winery offers a romantic and quaint setting for a wine tasting experience and a range of authentic local cuisines.

Read more about Wineries in Lisbon Wine Region to visit.

Cultural and Natural Places to Visit in Lisbon

Lisbon - The Meeting Place of Portuguese Heritage and History

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal as well as the country’s largest city. The city lies on the west of the Iberian Peninsula along the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus River. Lisbon is one of Portugal’s most historically rich cities. This beautiful city is the perfect place for a relaxing yet exciting holiday thanks to the permanent sunshine.

For food lovers, Lisbon is the perfect location to discover Portuguese cuisine and experience some of the most tantalising dishes. Lisbon is known for its true authenticity – it is the place where ancient history and old customs meet the modern world. Some of the greatest attractions to visit are the Arco de Rua Augusta, the Calcada Portuguesa, the Cape Roca and the Casino Lisbon.

All visitors to Portugal should take a trip to Lisbon to experience the very best in Portuguese hospitality. 

Azambuja - The Historical Seat of Portugal

The town of Azambuja was originally named Oliastrum. This town was founded by the Romans and was later occupied by the moors who gave it its current name. This incredible town is so old that there are no records of when it received its privelaged status.

The most popular attraction in Azambuja is the Palacio Manique do Intendente. This palace is situated in the main square of the Manique do Intendente. It cannot be missed thanks so its incredible façade and the chapel which lies at its centre. The entire building is open for access to visitors and allows for a breathtaking experience.

For those spending more time in Azambuja it is also worthwhile to take a trip to the parishes of Alcoentre, Avieras de Cima and Vila Nova da Rainha.

Leiria - All Roads Lead to Leiria

Leiria is a Portuguese city that is located in the Centro Region. Is it also the capital of the Leiria District? It has been said my many that within the Beiras region, all roads lead to the town of Leiria.

Leiria is home to a wealth of tourist attractions. Within the city, the Leiria Castle is the towns central point and rises out of the middle of the city centre. The surrounding areas are a network of cobblestoned streets lined with quaint shops and fantastic local restaurants. Just a short trip outside of town are excellent opportunities or surfing in the Atlantic Ocean. For those looking to relax, there are long and sandy beaches as well as the popular Sao Pedro de Moel resort.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Lisbon

Fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat

The Lisbon wine region is known for being incredibly green. In keeping with this, Lisbon was named the European Green Capital. The large number of vast green spaces in Lisbon offer the opportunity to explore nature at its best. The agricultural areas of the region are also teeming with wildlife including a range of birds and mammals. The perfect environment to escape, relax and rejuvenate.

Praia Foz do Arelho - Where The Lagoon Meets The Sea

The Praia Foz do Arelho is perfectly located where the Obidos Lagoon meets the see. This convergence provides incredibly beautiful scenes and long stretches of white beaches. The Praia Foz do Arelho offers two different types of beaches. The first beach has banks that are covered with trees and vegetation. The gentle waters on this beach are perfect for children. Windsurfers can also enjoy the wind that regularly blows here. On the other side of the lagoon is the open and wild ocean. This waters are rougher and are perfect for surfers and the more adventurous beachgoer. The Praia Foz do Arelho offers something for everyone looking for a day at the waters.

In 1987, the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre was established by Grupo Lobo. The main focus of this centre is to provide excellent captive conditions for Iberian wolves that are not able to live in the wild. These wolves come from a range of backgrounds including those who have been caught in traps, been abused and those who have been rescued from illegal captivity. The Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre welcomes visitors to its 17-acre centre in Picao. This large space provides the best possible conditions for the wolves. The centre is so popular that it welcomes over 100 000 visitors annually. There is also an adoption programme for those looking to give back to these extraordinary animals. 

Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais - The Natural Park on the Portuguese Riviera

The Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais is also known as the Sinta-Cascais Natural Park. This park is located on the Portuguese Riviera. It is also one of 13 Portuguese Natural Parks. The Sinta-Cascais Natural Park was established in 1994 and is a popular tourist attraction nearby to Lisbon. The park has a range of historical and natural attractions and sites that attract thousands of visitors. The attractions within the park include the Castle of the Moors, the Convent of the Capuchos, the Palace of Sintra, Guincho Beach, and the Monserrate Palace.

Discover the top-rated Lisbon Wine Region Wine Tour Guides and organize your unforgettable Guided Wine Tours in the beautiful Lisbon Wine Region.

Top 3 Local Gastronomical Specialties You Should Try

The cuisine of the Lisbon wine region relies heavily on the seafood harvested from the nearby coast. The local food of Lisbon is rich and varied and they are full of flavours and wonderful aromas. One of the greatest charms of this region is that most of the local restaurants are still family-run. These restaurants provide authentic culinary delights that should not be missed.

Pastel de Nata - The Most Delicious Treat in Portugal

Pastel de Nata is traditional Portuguese custard tart. These tarts are made with a rich egg-based custard that is placed in a crisp pastry cup.

The tart is then dusted with cinnamon for some extra flavour. The history of this quintessential Portuguese dessert dates back to the 18th century. During this time the Catholic monks used egg whites to start their clothes. Looking for a use for the egg yolks, the began making these delicious baked pastries. Today Pastel de Nata is available at all cafes and restaurants in Portugal and have also become popular throughout the rest of the world.

Acorda - The traditional soup of Portugal

Acorda is a delicious bread soup that is popular in the Lisbon region. The Acorda soup is thick with a smooth texture. The rich flavour of the soup is thanks to a combination of olive oil, herbs, garlic and boiling water. This mixture is then poured over sliced bread which is left to soften. In the coastal regions of Lisbon, it is common for the soup to be made with a seafood base. These soups are known as Acorda de Marisco and Acorda Alentejana. Acorda might have started as a poor man’s dish but today it is a comforting meal that is a rich part of the local culture.

Bacalhau - The favourite dish of the Portuguese people

Bacalhau is one of Portugal’s most famous and best-enjoyed dishes. Bacalhau is a fish that is used to cook many different recipes. The most common way to eat Bacalhau when visiting Lisbon is in the dish Bacalhau a Bras. This dish is made of shredded Bacalhau fish with onions, scrambled eggs and fried potatoes. This is then topped with black olives and finely chopped parsley. Any visit to Lisbon would not be complete without a lazy and warm afternoon spent on the coast enjoying Bacalhau a Bras with a glass of crisp white wine.

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Is Lisbon known for wine?

Lisbon is kwned for its wines, including white, red and rose varieties. Additionally, it also produces Brandy and Vinho Leve in certain areas. The vast selection ensures that everyone's taste can be catered to - there is something available for whatever preference one may have.

What alcohol is Lisbon famous for?

Ginjinha is as iconic in Lisbon as pastéis de nata and as much a cultural fixture as the city's shiny azulejo tiles. Most venues serve it in a small glass, similar to a shot glass, while other bars offer the option of ginja in a chocolate cup.

What wine grapes are grown in Lisbon?

In Lisbon, wine grapes such as Trincadeira, Castelão, Tinta Miúda, Baga, and Touriga Nacional are grown.