About 60 km south of Santiago, when crossing the river Minho/Miño in southerly direction, one arrives in North Portugal, in the Vinho Verde region. This is a green mountainous area with wooded valleys, settled with stone-houses and grand granite-framed manor houses. This is also the home of the Vinho Verde (green wine) vineyards. The most common grapes here are Alvarinho (known as Albariño in Spain), Loureiro, Trajadura and Vinhão. The quality of these wines has improved enormously in recent times; leading wine critics and wine lovers to seek out the best of the Vinho Verde wines. Their lightness, fruity aromas and freshness make good Vinho Verde wines a perfect companion for fine food or a delectable aperitif. You may also be pleasantly surprised by the unique red Vinho Verde made from the Espadeiro, Barraçal and Vinhão varieties. This particular wine is widely consumed by locals in traditional clay bowls. This region offers tasty uncomplicated and honest food. The local corn bread is delicious, and so are the local cured and smoked hams. Dishes like suckling pig cooked in a wood-fired oven, served with a peppery sauce and green salad make a great match with delightful local wines.