The Palmela wine region, nestled within Portugal's Setúbal Peninsula, boasts a rich viticultural heritage dating back to at least 1185, as referenced in the town's first royal charter. The region's unique terroir is characterized by two distinct areas: the Arrábida mountain range, with its clay-limestone soils and Atlantic influences, and the Palmela plains, known for their sandy soils and warmer, drier climate. This diverse landscape is particularly conducive to the cultivation of the Castelão grape variety, which forms the backbone of the region's robust red wines. Palmela's red wines are renowned for their complexity, balance, and distinctive cherry flavors, while the whites are celebrated for their aromatic profiles and refreshing acidity. The region also holds historical significance as the birthplace of Moscatel de Setúbal, one of Portugal's most esteemed fortified wines.
