Best Cheap Vinho Verde Buying Guide

Vinho Verde is a specialty white or rosé wine from Portugal that has recently gained attention. It is low in alcohol and full of character, and it makes for an excellent summer sipping wine. But with dozens of labels, how do you know which Vinho Verde to buy? The following guide contains useful tips for buying quality cheap Vinho Verde.

Vinho Verde Basics

Vinho Verde means "green wine" in Portuguese and is made from Portuguese indigenous white and red grape varieties. Depending on the sub-region, some of the best-known grape varieties used to make Vinho Verde include Alvarinho, Arinto, Avesso, Loureiro, 6, Trajadura, and Vinhao.

There are three main types of Vinho Verde. The most widely produced, and the one with the most affordable price tag, is the "Lima" style. These wines can be unoaked, lightly oaked, or sparkling, but all are typically very light in body, low in alcohol, and fruity in nature.

The second type is the "Monreal" style, aged in oak barrels. These wines are fuller-bodied, more aromatic than the "Lima" style, and usually priced higher.

And finally, the rarest and most expensive wine is the "Bical" style, made from a red-skinned grape called "Bico Verde." These wines are richer, more tannic, and can last longer in the bottle.

What to Look for When Buying Cheap Vinho Verde

When looking for a cheap Vinho Verde, consider the labeling and wine type first. Check whether the label states whether it is unoaked, lightly oaked, or sparkling. You can also look at the alcohol content; the lower the ABV, the lighter the body of the wine.

Next, look for the producer. Some of the best Vinho Verde producers are Quinta de Gomariz, Vinhos Barros, Vinhos Caneschi, and Vinho Meio seco. These producers use higher-quality grapes and produce consistently great wines.

Another crucial factor to consider is the location of the growing region. The three best Vinho Verde regions are Minho, Douro, and Vinhos Verdes, located in northern Portugal. Minho produces some of the best, most flavorful wines, while Douro and Vinhos Verdes are also great for more affordable wines.

Finally, look for awards and ratings. Ratings systems such as the Vivino Wine Style Awards and the International Wine Challenge can be useful when determining a wine's quality and price.

Conclusion

Finding the best cheap Vinho Verde can be difficult, but with the right research and knowledge, picking out a great bottle can be surprisingly easy. Start by understanding the type of Vinho Verde you're looking for, and then use the tips outlined here to narrow down your search. Finally, don't forget to pay attention to the producer, region, and ratings when selecting a bottle.