Cultural Wine Landscape Characterization: The Vinho Verde Region as an Example of an Approach

Abstract

The Wine cultural landscapes have yet to receive the necessary attention for their protection and preservation as fundamental elements of the authenticity of the regions they encompass. This issue becomes even more problematic due to the rapid growth of tourism in various wine-producing regions. Thus, it is essential to increase the number of studies involving various regional stakeholders to understand the best solutions for these areas better and preserve the existing cultural and heritage values. In this study, the Vinho Verde region is analysed as a culturally significant landscape, shaped by unique vine cultivation systems and associated with distinct grape varieties, strongly connected to the environment, traditions, and cultures with historical value. The study is based on a collaborative analysis with members of the “Comissão Vitivinícola da Região dos Vinhos Verdes” and participants that are local stakeholders linked to both the production and commercialisation of Vinho Verde, as well as entrepreneurs from the tourism sector. With this analysis, it was possible to conclude that participants are aware of the necessary preservation and protection of the cultural wine landscape by implementing concrete planning policies.