About The Wines of Portugal (2nd  Edition)

In the more than four decades since it first piqued Richard Mayson’s interest, Portuguese wine has changed almost immeasurably. In the late 1970s the country was recovering from revolution and the authoritarian regime that preceded it. Wine production was limited to a small number of large cooperatives and merchant firms, who mostly created uninspiring blends. Today Portugal produces lower volumes, but thousands of producers have recovered native grapes to make exciting, individual wines that express a unique sense of place. Many of these producers are experimenting with new production methods, some making the best of old traditions like foot-treading and vessels such as granite lagares and clay talhas. White wines have gained ground, especially in the north and on the islands, and climate change is altering the way vineyards and wineries are managed.

Richard Mayson begins The Wines of Portugal with a history of the country’s long relationship with wine. He goes on to provide an invaluable guide to Portugal’s grape varieties, featuring personal insights and varietal wine recommendations. The wine regions are grouped into four chapters based on geographical identity: the Atlantic coast, the mountainous north, the plains of the south and two groups of islands, Madeira and the Azores. Rosé and sparkling wines, both of which form an important and distinctive part of Portuguese history, are covered in separate chapters.

Each region includes profiles of producers, from innovative new winemakers to those who have helped to shape Portugal’s recent history. Since the first edition, Mayson has had the opportunity to visit more vineyards and taste many more wines. Enotourism has become increasingly important to Portuguese producers, some of whom have opened restaurants and hotels on site, and those who welcome visitors are highlighted. The book is completed with colour maps and an appendix covering all of Portugal’s approved grape varieties.

• Weight 0.75 kg
• Dimensions 156 x 234 mm