Everything About Verdelho Grape
"ver-DEL-oh" 
Verdelho Description
Origin: Portugal
History: Verdelho is a white wine grape variety that originated in Portugal, particularly on the island of Madeira, where it has been cultivated since at least the 15th century. It is one of the four noble grape varieties used in the production of Madeira wine, contributing to the medium-dry style of this fortified wine. Over time, Verdelho has been planted in other regions, including the Azores and mainland Portugal. In the 19th century, the grape was introduced to Australia, where it has gained popularity, especially in regions like the Hunter Valley, for producing dry white wines. Despite challenges such as the phylloxera plague, which devastated many vineyards, Verdelho has persisted and remains a significant variety in both fortified and table wine production.
Appearance: Small to medium-sized, greenish-yellow berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Verdelho is a vigorous vine that produces small bunches of tiny oval berries with a high skin-to-juice ratio. The grape ripens early and is well-suited to warm, dry climates. However, it is susceptible to certain viticultural hazards, including botrytis bunch rot, coulure, and downy and powdery mildew. Careful vineyard management is essential to maintain the health and quality of the grapes.
Food Pairing Verdelho's crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, such as grilled fish, shellfish, and ceviche. The wine's freshness also complements light salads, poultry dishes, and Asian cuisine. Its zesty character makes it an excellent choice for pairing with dishes featuring citrus elements or herbal notes.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, offering a clean and zesty palate. Typically vinified dry, highlighting its natural acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. As a white grape variety, Verdelho wines have negligible tannin content, resulting in a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and vibrancy to the wine, making it particularly suitable for warm climates. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 11.5% to 13.5%, depending on the winemaking style and region.
Citrus 
Exotic fruits 
Herbal 
Mineral Verdelho wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and tropical fruits like pineapple and guava. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdelho wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/portugal.png)
Portugal
•Madeira
•Azores
•Douro Valley
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•Hunter Valley
•Swan Valley
•Barossa Valley
Notable Wines and Producers
Barbeito Verdelho 10 Years Old Madeira
•Vinhos Barbeito
D'Oliveiras Verdelho Reserva
•Pereira D'Oliveira
McWilliam's Mount Pleasant Elizabeth Semillon
•McWilliam's Wines
Verdelho FAQ
Portugal
Verdelho has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Verdelho is Moderate to Light bodied.
Verdelho has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Verdelho is Dry.
Portugal
Verdelho is grown in Portugal (Madeira, Azores, Douro Valley)Australia (Hunter Valley, Swan Valley, Barossa Valley).
Verdelho wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and tropical fruits like pineapple and guava. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdelho wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
Verdelho's crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, such as grilled fish, shellfish, and ceviche. The wine's freshness also complements light salads, poultry dishes, and Asian cuisine. Its zesty character makes it an excellent choice for pairing with dishes featuring citrus elements or herbal notes.
Verdelho wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and tropical fruits like pineapple and guava. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdelho wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.