Vinho Verde
Portugal's largest wine region, Vinho Verde is situated in the northwest region known as Minho. The name Vinho Verde means "green wine", derived from the region's proximity to Costa Verde or the Green Coast and refers to the tradition of enjoying Vinho Verde wines while they are still young. These wines are known for their "sparkle" which comes from the release of carbon dioxide during malolactic fermentation. Some Vinho Verde winemakers prefer to stop the fermenting process just before malolactic fermentation begins, preferring to add carbon dioxide in to the wine just prior to bottling. Some producers believe that allowing malolatic fermentation to begin changes the aroma and will detract from the overall freshness of the wine. Traditional Vinho Verde is a very dry wine, however commercial brands are often lightly sweetened to appeal to overseas markets. The main white grape used in Vinho Verde is Alvarinho.