Antão Vaz

Say it: ahn-TOWNG VAHSH

The Alentejo’s signature white, especially around Vidigueira. Often picked early or blended with Arinto and Roupeiro to keep it fresh.

In the glassRipe citrus, tropical fruit, full body.

Wines made with Antão Vaz

Alentejo White

White

Alentejo DOC Branco

Full, sunny whites built on Antão Vaz, freshened with Arinto and Roupeiro. Vidigueira and high Portalegre make the freshest examples.

Critics: up to 92 pts

Vinho de Talha

Red

Talha wine

Wine fermented and aged in large clay amphorae (talhas), sealed inside with pitch or beeswax, a tradition kept alive in the Alentejo since Roman times. White, red and orange versions exist; the wine stays on its skins and cannot be drawn before 11 November.

Producers to try

Herdade do Esporão

Reguengos de Monsaraz · Alentejo, Douro, Vinho Verde

One of the Alentejo’s leading estates, with a large organic vineyard and an ampelographic collection of native grapes. Also owns Quinta do Ameal and Quinta dos Murças in the Douro.

Cartuxa

Évora · Alentejo

The winery of the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, named after Évora’s Carthusian monastery. Its Pêra-Manca red is released only in exceptional years and is one of Portugal’s most sought-after wines.

João Portugal Ramos

Estremoz · Alentejo, Vinho Verde, Douro

A highly influential consultant winemaker turned producer. His Marquês de Borba wines are Alentejo classics.

Herdade da Malhadinha Nova

Albernoa, Beja · Alentejo

A family estate in the Baixo Alentejo combining wine, farming and hospitality, with organic vineyards.

Herdade do Rocim

Vidigueira · Alentejo

A Vidigueira estate at the forefront of the talha revival; it hosts an annual amphora wine event.