Noted for strong-tasting, distinct wines, Portugal exports its product around the world. As many as 18 grape varieties are used in its best-known wine, Port, first popularized three centuries ago.

Among the major Portugese wine regions are the Minho region, known for very sharp reds and soft whites; the Douro region, the country's best-known and one of the world's most productive wine regions, known for Port and table wine; and the Dao region, which produces the country's most famous and popular red wines, known for their smoothness.

Portugal's vineyards are dominated by native grape varieties that are little known outside the country. The best of them are red. Some of the most notable red varieties are produced from Touriga Nacional, Tinto Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca and Tinta Cao grapes.

The most popular Portugese white wine is probably Vinho Verde, made in the Minho region. Fresh, fruity, and often lightly effervescent, its name (which literally means "green wine") refers not to the beverage's color but to its youth. It is a wine meant to be consumed soon after it is made. A small percentage of Vinho Verde is red, but this wine is not exported. It's worth a taste if you're visiting Portugal, though -- its magenta color and acidic taste are cherished by locals.

Most other Portugese wines fall into the general category of Vinho Maduro, or wine meant to be aged in the bottle. The label notations "Reserva" and "Garrafeira" usually mean far better wine a slightly higher price.