📍 Bucelas

Bucelas is a small wine appellation in the surroundings of Lisbon, north of the Portuguese capital, in a valley between hills. It is one of the smallest Portuguese zones with a protected appellation (DOC) and belongs to the Lisbon wine region.

The wines are white, made from the Arinto grape (Bucelas wine must contain at least 75% Arinto). Arinto has bright acidity and a lemony taste, and with age the wines take on honeyed and nutty notes. Sparkling wines are also made.

Ocean breezes and the shelter of the hills create a cool climate, and clay and limestone soils hold moisture. Thanks to its acidity, the wine pairs well with fish and seafood, so loved in Portugal.

Bucelas is part of the Lisbon region, but the focus here is on white wine, and many bottles can age for ten years or longer. If you like fresh dry whites, it is worth a try. These wines pair best with fish, seafood and fresh cheese, and are served well chilled. The name Bucelas on a label shows that the grapes grew in this very area, which makes it easy to look for similar wines.