Portugal

Portugal is predominantly known for Port, however it also produces some outstanding light wines, from Vinho Verde, the light, slightly spritzy speciality of the North to the rich juicy reds from the Douro Valley and the South. The steep, rocky terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley are not a natural wonder of the world but have in fact been handcrafted by local grape growers. In the old days they were literally hewn out of the rocks with pickaxes and shovels, though now, less romantically, they are grateful for the invention of bulldozers.

Bibendum Fact

The Anglo-Portuguese alliance between England (succeeded by the United Kingdom) and Portugal is the oldest alliance in the world which is still in force. It was signed in 1373.