The Vinho Verde region, in northwest Portugal, surrounds Braga. “Green” here means young rather than the colour: these are mostly light, fresh wines, with a slight sparkle in some styles, made to be drunk young with seafood and salty northern cooking.
Grapes such as Loureiro, Arinto and Trajadura dominate across the Minho, while the far north around Monção and Melgaço is famous for its richer Alvarinho. You will still see vines trained high on pergolas and trees, a traditional way of keeping fruit off damp ground and leaving space for crops below.
Top things to do: Vinho Verde Country
Taste Alvarinho at the source
Monção is about 90 minutes from Braga by car.
Visit Ponte de Lima
A lovely old town and a long bridge, about 30 minutes’ drive from Braga.
Book an estate visit
Many estates accept visitors by appointment only.
How to get to Vinho Verde Country
- A car is by far the best way to explore. There are also guided options around the region.
Insider tips
- Arrange a designated driver: Portuguese drink-driving limits are strict.
- The harvest generally falls around September.
- In Braga, most restaurants serve Vinho Verde by the glass, a cheap way to try several.
Best tours for Vinho Verde Country
These experiences are the easiest way to see Vinho Verde Country:
Wine tasting from €29 Monção: Quinta da Torre Wine Tasting with Regional Snacks
A relaxed tasting in the far north of the Vinho Verde region, for drivers heading that way.
- Alvarinho country
- Regional snacks
- On a wine estate
Wine tour from €60 From Porto: Vinho Verde Tour with Tasting at a Family Estate
An estate visit with tasting in the Vinho Verde region. Check the meeting point on the product page.
- An estate visit
- A Vinho Verde tasting
- The Monção area
Food tour from €40 Braga Food Tour: Guided Tour with Tastings & Wine
A guided walk through the city’s food, with tastings and wine along the way.
- Local tastings
- Wine included
- Stories behind the dishes
