The 12th edition of the Vinho Verde Fest was inaugurated in Braga, where José Manuel Fernandes declared that wine, when consumed responsibly and in moderation, poses no health risks.
Fernandes emphasized the cultural significance of wine, noting its integral role in religious traditions: “There is no mass without wine,” he stated.
In 2024, Portugal achieved a surplus of 800 million euros by exporting significantly more wine than it imported, an essential contribution to the country’s trade balance.
Focusing on vinho verde, Fernandes highlighted that from January to April this year, Portugal exported 38 million euros worth of the product. He advocated for increasing both the promotion of vinho verde and its international pricing.
“Vinho verde is being exported at an average cost of 2.45 euros per liter, which I believe does not reflect its quality despite global challenges,” he commented.
The Agriculture Minister stressed the need to mitigate global criticisms of wine consumption, advocating for responsible and moderate consumption without health concerns.
Fernandes pointed to Cávado, a region known for its vinho verde, traditional dishes like “arroz pica no chão,” and desserts such as “pudim Abade de Priscos,” as having the longest life expectancy in the nation.
“Eating and drinking, in moderation, will never go out of style,” he remarked.
The Vinho Verde Fest features 33 exhibitors with over 200 wine selections. The Business Association of Braga anticipates selling 20,000 bottles of wine, with an expected economic impact of 350,000 euros.
