Vinho Verde takes its name ("green wine") from the lush, rainy northwest corner of Portugal it comes from, not from the wine's colour. Traditionally low in alcohol and often with a faint natural sparkle, it's built for easy, refreshing drinking. Alvarinho — the same grape as Spain's Albariño, grown just across the border — makes the region's more serious, fuller-bodied examples, while blends of Loureiro, Trajadura and other local grapes make up the lighter, everyday style. Avesso is the ageworthy grape and lighter, chillable reds are also on the rise.

Key grapes: Alvarinho, Loureiro, Trajadura, Avesso