Read time - 2.5 minutes
Half way between the wine-producing region of Monção and the resort town of Cascais in Portugal, we arrived at the spa town of Curia in Bairrada, an area with a rich winemaking tradition.
The landscape is characterised by rolling hills and expanses of vineyards on flatter lands. Bairrada stands as a cornerstone of Portugal's sparkling wine production, with approximately two-thirds of the nation's sparkling wine originating from its vineyards.
Alongside Baga, Bairrada embraces other indigenous Portuguese red grape varieties such as; Alfrocheiro-Preto, Tinta Pinheira, and Touriga Nacional. International red grape varieties like Merlot and Syrah also find a place in the region's vineyards.
And when it comes to white grapes, Bairrada proudly presents native Portuguese varieties like Arinto, Bical, Cercial, and Maria Gomes, in addition to the globally recognised Chardonnay.
Do check out this wine region on your next European wine adventure.
We checked into the Curia Palace Hotel Spa & Golf, a former palace turned luxurious retreat, then took a leisurely stroll down the tree-lined street, leading up to the fully functioning Curia train station. However, to our surprise, the once train station waiting room had been lovingly converted into a wine shop boasting an enticing array of Portuguese wines, majority hailing from the Bairrada region, as well as other irresistible regional products that you will want to take back home.
Of course, there was also a charming tasting room where we enjoyed a variety of Baga grape wines, that were paired with delectable local cheeses. The Baga grape takes the spotlight in Bairrada, and this varietal produces tannic wines with high acidity, used in both red and sparkling wines.
During our wine tasting, we were captivated by the region's deeply pigmented, tannic red wines, often revealing flavours of bell pepper and black currant. It was fascinating to learn that wine making in Bairrada has a history dating back to at least the 10th century, coinciding with the region's liberation from Moorish rule. This historical backdrop added a rich layer of significance to our wine experience, making it all the more memorable.
A good base for your wine tour in Bairrada. We stayed 2 nights at The Curia Palace Hotel Spa & Golf, originally a royal residence constructed in the late 19th century for the last Portuguese kings.
The Baga grape has 28 synonyms that include names like Tinta Bairrada, Carrasquenho, Tinta Fina, and more. (Source: Maul et al. Vitis International Variety Catalogue, accessed Nov, 2023).
Anadia was been dubbed the "Capital do Espumante," signifying it as the "Sparkling Wine Capital".
Bairrada proudly carries the prestigious Denominação de Origem Controlada (DOC) classification.
Curia Station Building
Largo da Estação, Tamengos, Curia, Portugal
Tel: +351 231 503 105
https://rotadabairrada.pt/
Images used in this article are courtesy of our team.
By Wanjikũ "Xico" Gitaũ
Xico's mission? To be the ultimate cheerleader for the most relaxing spa experiences, and the tastiest sips of wine and spirits. But wait, there's more – she's all about turning business vibes into a fun and eco-friendly dance, and is your go-to gal for all things lifestyle chic!
We seek out people and places where every interaction leaves you with a resounding "WOW, THAT WAS SPECIAL"!
From breathtaking golf courses and spa retreats that promise serenity, to beautiful vineyards and distilleries.
Since 2016, we've built a thriving hub for you to enjoy discounts at over 100 partners and private events. Join our weekly email for this and more.
GolfSpaWine.com is owned and operated by CEX HQ Ltd a company organised and existing under the laws of England and Wales. Company Number 13028700.
