Palmela Wine Region Guide

Palmela is a DOC on the opposite side of the Tejo estuary from Lisbon, in Portugal. The area includes both the sandy plains east of the Palmela township and Serra da Arrabida hills. Palmela wine region is well-regarded for its unique wine and it is an excellent choice for those that are looking for new taste. You will not find such a taste anywhere in the world. It is predominantly focused on red wines, and in particular those made from the Castelão Frances grape variety. This is a great place to visit, and you won't be disappointed.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Palmela Wine Region

Where is the Palmela Wine Region

Palmela wine region is in the Lisboa Region and Setúbal District in Portugal, about 25 kilometers south of Lisbon.

History of Palmela Wine

Among the variety of wines Moscatel de Setúbal has a special place and privileged history. The region was founded in 1907 and covers the municipalities of Palmela and Setúbal. This wine regions have a great historical tradition and many references throughout time. Since the Roman colonisation, in excavations made in the Setúbal Peninsula, mainly in Troia, amphorae used for the transport of wine have been found. In 1147, Afonso Henriques conquered Lisbon and the trade of wine, fruit and salt was already playing an important role. For several centuries, history illustrated well the importance that wines had in the region. References to wine were made from people such as D. Dinis in 1310 and D. Maria in 1806 on up to modern times. From the 14th century onwards, these wines were exported to England, but it was not until the 18th century, that they became popular in France. in 1797, the Setúbal wine was mentioned in the list of wines served at a banquet of knights of the Order of Malta. as well as being listed as one of the most expensive wines at a bottled wine auction of the Duc d'Aiguillon. It was also one of the wines most appreciated by King Louis XIV, who always had it in his palace at Versailles and perhaps, influenced by his sovereign, Voltaire drank it at his home in Geneva. King Humbert I of Italy served it in his cellar in 1968. The tradition of this wine dates back several centuries and began to be marketed from 1870 by José Maria da Fonseca. He created three different types of Muscat liqueur wine, "Roxo", "Superior" and "Colheita". This category is the youngest because it was created in 1870.He also introduced the Castelao grape, also known as Periquita because of the area where it was planted and the use of the name Pam on some bottles, which is why it is considered to be the origin of a DOC.

Terrior of Palmela

Much of Palmela wines are made with grape varieties which are mainly planted in sandy soils. This region is made up of a variety of different geological structures and landscapes. The main feature in the south is soil types, they're clayey-calcareous. In the north of the region there is a vast area of more or less poor sandy soils that covers about 75% of the total area. The climate in the region can be classified as mixed, subtropical and Mediterranean with medium thermal amplitudes, influenced by the proximity of the sea to rivers. In Palmela, summers are warm, dry, and mostly clear and winters are cold, wet, windy, and partly cloudy. The average annual temperature is between 6.6°C and 30°C, and it rarely goes below 2.7°C or above 36°C. The climate and soil conditions can make or break the end product. But because of these attributes, this town in Portugal produces some of the best red wines.

Palmela Wine Characteristics 

Palmela DOC red wines are known for their balance, ripe tannins and cherry characters. Most wines are made up of a blend of Castelão and other grapes, but the law requires that at least 67% of the blend be Castelão. The remaining wines in the range include Cabernet Sauvignon, Aragonez, and Syrah. A small amount of wine is made at the Palmela DOC under the Fernão Pires, Moscatel de Setúbal grapes.

Food to pair with Palmela Wine

1. Bifana

Bifana is a classic Portuguese sandwich that features few ingredients and makes for an exquisite dish. It consists of a seasoned, lightly pounded, sliced or whole pork steaks that are simmered in garlicky sauce and then topped with cheese. The variations on this classic recipe can slightly differ depending on the region. It pairs well with Palmela wines.

2. Farinha torrada

Farinha torrada is a traditional Portuguese dessert originating from fishermen. It is traditionally a long-lasting, nutritious treat that was mainly taken on fishing trips to the sea. Flour, sugar and eggs are mixed to form a soft dough that is now often enriched with citrus zest, chocolate chips and cinnamon. Farinhão is a popular local delicacy. It is commonly prepared at home, but traditionally it is served sliced into squares.

3. Choco frito

In Portugal, Choco frito is a traditional dish. It originated in Setúbal where it's the most famous local specialty. Although you might think that the dish contains chocolate, it actually consists of fried cuttlefish that's typically served with potato chips or fries, salad and lemon wedges for squeezing the juice onto the choco frito. Cuttlefish commonly has a garlic, bay leaf, and lemon marinade and is coated in corn starch before being fried to crispy perfection. It should be succulent and crunchy on the outside while in the center it's chunky and tender!

Places to visit near Palmela

1.Castelo de Palmela

Castelo de Palmela is a National Monument in Portugal! It's located in the village, parish & county of the same name. It's district of Setúbal and is considered one of Portugal's most important castles.

2. Iglesia de San Pedro

Saint Peter Church, also locally known as Iglesia de San Pedro, is one of the oldest churches and was completed in 1638. It is run by the Jesuits who have made it into a Basilica. In addition to this, it serves as one of the Archdiocese of Lima churches.

3. Museu da Musica Mecanica

The museum has a compact layout with an inner courtyard that is reminiscent of an old-school music box. The facade has a concave shape to represent the sound hole of record players and stereos. You'll spend some time in this museum, where you'll be able to travel to a different place and experience a wide range of exhibits from music boxes, antique clocks and automata.

Frequently asked questions about Palmela Wine Region