Catálogo Missão Londres

freshness that comes from the altitude and the
cool nights whilst the grapes ripen.
The importance of these wines has grown in the
past few years thanks to their enormous
potential for quality.
Made with the most modern methods and the
finest selection of grapes, the personalities of
the reds, whites and rosés are a true reflection of
the soil, climate and a respect for nature. These
wines smell and taste of the Douro with the
unique characteristics of schist rock, wild
flowers and berries.
During the 1990s, many farmers, some already
active in the Port trade, began to dedicate
themselves to producing Douro still wines, thus
turning the Douro Demarcated Region into one
of the most dynamic winemaking regions in
Europe. This contribution positioned Portugal as
one of the most promising wine regions,
particularly for Red wines.
The World Bank funds, along with membership,
from 1986 onwards, of the European Economic
Community, permitted many investments in
projects that triggered the potential of a region
full of latent resources. One example was the
study of the enormous variety of native vines.
Portugal was a pioneer in this study, developing
new research for the best use of this rich and
unique heritage.
Wineries were refitted with the most modern
equipment. A new generation of oenologists
was born, many of whom trained and acquired
their expertise in Portugal and abroad or in
several national institutions, of which the
University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro is
of particular relevance.
Generations revolutionised winemaking
in the region and brought international
fame to the Douro terroir.
5