Vinho Regional Lisboa
Vinho Regional Lisboa is a term used to identify the wines of the Lisboa (Lisbon) region, centered around the city of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Situated in central western Portugal, near the Atlantic Ocean, there are varied conditions here, as there are nine separate DOC appellations, ranging from the cool climate near the ocean to a warmer, drier climate east of the sea.
Most vineyards in Lisboa (formerly known as Estremedura) are located north of Lisbon, and are planted with a myriad of varieties. For whites, Arinto, Malvasia and Seara-Nova are important, while reds vary from Touriga Nacional to Alicante Bouchet and even a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon. The most famous white is Bucelas, a DOC, produced from Arinto; this is a dry, crisp, aromatic white that is sometimes made as a sparkling wine. Pair this with local shellfish.
The finest reds are from warm DOCs such as Alenquer, east of Lisbon, and Arruda, south of Alenquer. The wines are a mix of local and international varieties, and are fruit-forward with ripe black fruit notes. These are best paired with roast meats, game and aged cheeses. The best, priced in the low $20 range on US retail shelves, are meant for medium-term drinking, from five to seven years.