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This page: The Douro Valley is a stunning region to explore Opposite page: Vineyards thrive in the Portuguese climate; traditional tiles; there are plenty of opportunities to sample port wine; river views provide perfect backdrop for wine-tasting From full-bodied reds to fresh vinho verdes, to the sweet taste of fortified port, Oonagh Turner raises a glass to Portugal's wine regions W inemaking has existed on the Iberian Peninsula for thousands of years, and while its neighbouring countries are famed for their stellar production with the likes of Bordeaux and Rioja being household names, Portugal as a wine region is oft-overlooked as a producer of reds, whites and roses. But Portugal certainly packs a punch, with 13 different wine regions boasting an array of climates, soils and altitudes, each region offering something unique to enthuse any oenophile. e first vineyards were cultivated here around 2,000 BC. Over the arch of history, the vast mix of settlers Wine list who have moved into this part of the world – from the Greeks to the Phoenicians – have brought with them varying techniques, skill and all kinds of grapes. So partial were the Romans to the Portuguese grape they named the land after the son of the Roman god of wine, Bacchus and did much to further and expand viticulture in Portugal. e Romans are to be thanked for one of Portugal's greatest wine regions, having established vineyards along the Douro, where the river is flanked by cascading vines that tumble almost to the water's edge. Jump forward a few centuries and Portugal's vineyards played a large role quenching the thirst of the English, who were on the look- out for an alternative market to France, given the resentful political fall-out. e English found and fell in love with port – the drink so closely connected with the Iberian Peninsula and so deeply embedded in its history and culture. e process with port differs to that of wine, involving adding a clear brandy to fermented grape juice, allowing it to fortify and intensify into that beautifully sweet and fabulous flavour. Legend has it that this sweeter, fortified version of wine was discovered during a 17th century visit by English wine merchants at a monastery. A thriving port trade with the English ensued. Today, the rustic 74 VIKING