Loureiro

Say it: loh-RAY-roo

Named after the bay laurel (loureiro) for its scent. The aromatic star of the Lima and Cávado valleys.

In the glassOrange blossom, lime, bay leaf; crisp and light.

Wines made with Loureiro

Vinho Verde (white)

White

Vinho Verde Branco

Light, crisp whites from the rainy northwest, often low in alcohol and sometimes with a slight sparkle. Everyday blends are some of Portugal’s best-known exports; single-variety Alvarinho and Loureiro offer more depth and age well.

Critics: up to 91 pts

Bottles to try

Quinta do Ameal Loureiro Reserva

White

Quinta do Ameal · Vinho Verde

€24Mid-range

Wine Spectator 90 pts (2023)

Producers to try

Anselmo Mendes

Monção · Vinho Verde

A winemaker nicknamed “Mr Alvarinho” for his detailed work with the grape, including skin-contact and barrel-aged versions such as Muros de Melgaço.

Aveleda

Est. 1870

Penafiel · Vinho Verde

A family estate with famous gardens. Its Casal Garcia brand is one of the best-selling Vinho Verdes in the world.

Quinta do Ameal

Ponte de Lima · Vinho Verde

A Lima valley estate that showed how serious and age-worthy Loureiro can be. Now part of the Esporão group.