Távora e Varosa

this remote and very unknown region is in northeastern Portugal between Douro in the North and Dão in the South; it was the first appellation for sparkling Portuguese wines (1989). There was a good reason indeed; the Cister Monks started making sparkling in the 17th century. Even if half of the oldest vineyards are planted with Malvasia Fina, there is a significant range of local grapes, but for a century the French Chardonnay and Pinot Noir – two major grapes in Champagne – have gained presence. Red wines are also produced under DOC Tavora Varosa.