This is one of the wine regions that surrounds the highest point of mainland Portugal: the Serra da Estrela. So the granite landscape, altitude vineyards and wines with a lot of personality are the highlights that make the Dão such a special region.
REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Area
20 000 hectares of vineyards (49,421 acres)
Soil
Low fertile soils predominantly granite and some shale in the south.
Climate
Temperate climate with a large thermal amplitude. Hot and dry summers with cold and rainy winters. The conditions are dependent on the Estrela, Caramulo, Lousão, Buçaco, Nave e Açor mountains all of which protect the area from the maritime winds.
Topography
Mountainous
Main grape varieties
White: Encruzado, Malvasia-Fina, Red: Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro, Jaen
Wine Tourism
Wine and Serra da Estrela cheese is what comes to mind whenever one talks about the Dão region! Those alone are good enough reasons to pop by for a visit, but there’s more.
When discovering this region, you will find granite landscape and rough terrain, but you will also find a few of the most beautiful and well-maintained vineyards in Portugal!
The region’s Welcome Centre is in Viseu and a good starting point for exploring the Dão Wine route. There you will find information about all the estates and producers available to take you in and share with you their knowledge, wines, cheese, and local produce.
Main cities to visit: Viseu, Nelas, Seia and Penalva do Castelo
Main grape varieties
Main white varieties: Encruzado, Malvasia-Fina
Main red varieties: Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro, Jaen
Dão is the birth region of the quintessential red variety Touriga Nacional, renowned for its flowery aromas, thus making very elegant wines.
The most surprising feature about the Dão wines, whether they are red or white, is their longevity. The wines are produced to last several years, and keep their quality, though they will still showcase their smoothness and character if opened shortly after bottling.
Location
WINERIES TO VISIT
One of the most iconic wine estates in the Dão region. Its wines are recognised for their tradition, authenticity, and nobility reasons, making this Dão brand so special and appreciated for its 400 years of history.
A cozy farm set at the foot of the Estrela Mountains (Serra da Estrela), which includes a small hotel, restaurant, a stud farm, and production of wine, cheese, jams and olive oil.
