Grape Variety
Baga
"BAH-gah"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Baga
Origin
Bairrada, Portugal
History
Baga is a red Portuguese wine grape variety planted primarily in the Bairrada DOC. As a varietal, Baga produces tannic wines with high acidity. Historically, Baga was often used in bulk wine production, but modern winemaking techniques have unlocked its potential for producing high-quality, age-worthy wines.
Appearance
Small, thick-skinned dark-colored berries growing in tightly packed clusters.
Growing Traits
Baga thrives in clay-limestone soils and requires careful vineyard management to control its vigor and susceptibility to rot. It is a late-ripening variety, and achieving full phenolic ripeness is crucial to balance its naturally high acidity and tannin levels.
Wine Characteristics
Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
5/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a robust and structured profile, offering depth and concentration. Dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on intense fruit and earthy flavors. High tannin levels, providing firm structure and significant aging potential. High acidity, contributing to freshness and longevity, balancing the robust tannins. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Blackberry
Black Currant
Dried Cherry
Cocoa
Tar
Baga wines are characterized by intense flavors of blackberry and black currant, complemented by notes of dried cherry. Subtle hints of cocoa and tar add complexity, all balanced by high acidity and firm tannins, leading to a long, structured finish.
Food Pairing
Baga's high acidity and tannic structure make it an excellent match for rich, fatty, and flavorful dishes. It pairs well with roasted meats, such as suckling pig, and hearty stews. The wine's robustness also complements aged cheeses and charcuterie.
Growing Regions
Portugal
BairradaDãoBeiras
Notable Wines & Producers
Luis Pato Vinha Pan
Luis Pato
Niepoort Lagar de Baixo
Niepoort
Baga FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Baga?
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Bairrada, Portugal
Is Baga wine full bodied?
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Baga has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Baga is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Baga wine dry or sweet?
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Baga has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Baga is Dry.
Where is Baga wine from?
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Bairrada, Portugal
Where is Baga grown?
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Baga is grown in Portugal (Bairrada, Dão, Beiras).
What is Baga like?
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Baga wines are characterized by intense flavors of blackberry and black currant, complemented by notes of dried cherry. Subtle hints of cocoa and tar add complexity, all balanced by high acidity and firm tannins, leading to a long, structured finish.
What does Baga pair with?
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Baga's high acidity and tannic structure make it an excellent match for rich, fatty, and flavorful dishes. It pairs well with roasted meats, such as suckling pig, and hearty stews. The wine's robustness also complements aged cheeses and charcuterie.
What does Baga taste like?
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Baga wines are characterized by intense flavors of blackberry and black currant, complemented by notes of dried cherry. Subtle hints of cocoa and tar add complexity, all balanced by high acidity and firm tannins, leading to a long, structured finish.
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