Bairrada DOC

One of the most fascinating and authentic wine regions in Portugal, located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Dão hills in the country’s central area, within the Aveiro district.
The name derives from the word “barro” – meaning clay – a nod to the region’s dense clay soils that give its wines structure, depth, and remarkable aging potential.

The appellation was officially established in 1979, though winemaking traditions here date back to the 17th century. Bairrada was among the first Portuguese regions to export wine abroad. Today, it remains a modern yet tradition-rooted region, renowned for its powerful red wines made from ‘Baga’ and its refined sparkling wines.

The climate is distinctly Atlantic – cool, humid, and variable. Summers are warm but never hot, while autumn brings frequent winds and rainfall, leading to a long, slow ripening period. These conditions help preserve natural acidity and a fine aromatic balance.

The soils are a mix of clay and limestone, known locally as barrocal, which gives the wines density and structure while maintaining elegance.

The dominant red grape variety is ‘Baga’, celebrated for its firm tannic structure, high acidity, and outstanding capacity to age. Young Baga wines are vibrant and expressive, while with time they develop into complex wines showing notes of dried plum, earth, tobacco, and forest floor.

White wines are typically made from ‘Bical’, ‘Maria Gomes’ (Fernão Pires), and ‘Cercial’ varieties – they are fresh, with citrus and green apple notes, and some are aged in oak to gain additional texture and depth.