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Meet Códega do Larinho—one of the most aromatic and intriguing white grape varieties in Portugal. Native to the picturesque Douro Valley and the neighboring Trás-os-Montes region, this grape is a true discovery for those seeking expressive aromas and a fuller body. In the glass, this white wine explodes with enchanting notes of white flowers (acacia), peaches, melons, and crisp citrus fruits. Although historically it has been an essential component of White Port blends, today the best Portuguese winemakers are using Códega do Larinho to craft incredibly fragrant, textural, and modern dry wines that pair flawlessly with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
White dry
Portugal
White dry
Portugal
Fortified sweet
Portugal
Códega do Larinho is a grape perfectly adapted to the extreme climate and rugged schist soils of the Douro Valley. While it boasts a remarkably high aromatic intensity and can accumulate a lot of sugar (which gives the wine viscosity and alcohol), it naturally has relatively low acidity. Because of this, winemakers traditionally prefer to blend it with other local varieties that offer higher acidity, such as Rabigato, Arinto, or Viosinho. This blending creates a perfect balance: Códega do Larinho provides the floral bouquet and body, while the other grapes add crisp freshness and longevity. However, with advances in winemaking technology, it is becoming increasingly common to find exceptional single-varietal wines made purely from this grape.
Because of its expressive aroma, fruitiness, and slightly viscous texture, dry Códega do Larinho wines are fantastic food companions. They pair ideally with traditional Portuguese dishes: baked salted cod (Bacalhau), grilled sardines, or octopus. This wine will also beautifully accompany poultry, pasta with creamy seafood sauces, and soft, creamy cheeses.
If you are tasting a White Port, try mixing it with tonic water, ice, and a slice of lemon—you will get the legendary "Porto Tónico" cocktail, which is an absolutely perfect match for salted almonds or green olives.
No, and this is a common source of confusion. Although the names sound very similar, they are two completely different varieties. In Portugal, the name "Códega" is most commonly used as a synonym for the popular Síria (or Roupeiro) grape. Meanwhile, Códega do Larinho is a separate, distinct, and much more specific grape from the Douro region.
To fully reveal its delicate floral and fruity aromas, dry Códega do Larinho wine (or its blends) is best served well-chilled, at around 8–10°C. White Port should be served even cooler (around 6–8°C), especially if it is being enjoyed as an aperitif.
