Grape Variety
Espadeiro
"es-pah-DAY-roh"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Espadeiro
Origin
Minho, Portugal
History
Espadeiro is a red grape variety indigenous to the Iberian Peninsula, primarily cultivated in Portugal's Minho region for the production of Vinho Verde wines. It has been cultivated in the wine-growing regions of northern Portugal and Spain since the 18th century. In Galicia, Spain, it was the predominant red variety in the Val do Salnés (Rías Baixas D.O.) until the 1980s, when the more profitable Albariño grape replaced many red grape vineyards. Recently, several wineries have embarked on its recovery.
Appearance
Medium-sized, dark-skinned berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Espadeiro is a vigorous vine that adapts well to granitic soils, tolerates humidity, winds, and is not sensitive to diseases. It is a late-ripening, high-yielding variety that produces light red or rosé wines.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
1/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
2/5
Light-bodied with a fresh and vibrant profile, emphasizing its high acidity and red fruit flavors. Typically dry, focusing on its natural acidity and fruitiness with minimal residual sugar. Low tannin levels, resulting in a smooth and approachable palate. High acidity, providing a zesty and invigorating character, making it suitable for rosé and light red wine production. Low to moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 10% and 12%, ensuring a light and refreshing wine.
Taste Profile
Strawberry
Cherry
Raspberry
Herbal
Floral
Espadeiro wines are characterized by bright red fruit flavors, such as strawberry, cherry, and raspberry, complemented by subtle herbal and floral notes. The high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a zesty and invigorating rosé or light red wine.
Food Pairing
Espadeiro's high acidity and red fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood, light salads, and fresh cheeses. It pairs particularly well with grilled fish, sushi, and dishes featuring tomato-based sauces. Its crispness also complements spicy Asian cuisine, balancing heat with refreshing acidity.
Growing Regions
Portugal
MinhoVinho Verde
Spain
GaliciaRías Baixas
Notable Wines & Producers
Attis Espadeiro
Attis Bodegas y Viñedos
Quinta da Raza Vinho Verde Rosé
Quinta da Raza
Espadeiro Rosé
Adega de Monção
Espadeiro FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Espadeiro?
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Minho, Portugal
Is Espadeiro wine full bodied?
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Espadeiro has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Espadeiro is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Espadeiro wine dry or sweet?
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Espadeiro has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Espadeiro is Dry.
Where is Espadeiro wine from?
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Minho, Portugal
Where is Espadeiro grown?
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Espadeiro is grown in Portugal (Minho, Vinho Verde)Spain (Galicia, Rías Baixas).
What is Espadeiro like?
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Espadeiro wines are characterized by bright red fruit flavors, such as strawberry, cherry, and raspberry, complemented by subtle herbal and floral notes. The high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a zesty and invigorating rosé or light red wine.
What does Espadeiro pair with?
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Espadeiro's high acidity and red fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood, light salads, and fresh cheeses. It pairs particularly well with grilled fish, sushi, and dishes featuring tomato-based sauces. Its crispness also complements spicy Asian cuisine, balancing heat with refreshing acidity.
What does Espadeiro taste like?
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Espadeiro wines are characterized by bright red fruit flavors, such as strawberry, cherry, and raspberry, complemented by subtle herbal and floral notes. The high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a zesty and invigorating rosé or light red wine.
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