Tucked into the heart of the Portuguese region of Bairrada is a state-of-the-art winery and vineyard producing some of the newest, freshest wines to date under the Principal name. Managed under the IDEALDRINKS umbrella, Principal wines are among some of the most sought-after Portuguese wine brands, soon-to-be worldwide. The wines produced here include red wines, white wines, sparkling, and roses. On the property in Sao Lourenco do Bairro, you will find grape varietals that include: Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Arinto. Some of the best wines to come from these lands include the Principal Grande Reserva 2008 (Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot), and the Principal Tete Cuvee Rose 2009 (Pinot Noir).
Carlos Dias, Chairman of the Board of Directors of IDEALDRINKS, along with Costodio Dias (COO), and winemakers, Carlos Lucas (CEO) and Pascal Chatonnet, manage the operations of IDEALDRINKS, which owns the vineyards in Sao Lourenco do Bairro. Carlos Lucas, perhaps one of the most well known Portuguese winemakers, was awarded “winemaker of the year” in 2007 by the wine magazine, Revista dos Vinhos. Winemaker, Pascal Chatonnet, originally from France, is one of the most respected experts of the world in the art of using Oak barrels for aging wine. Along with the experience and leadership of Carlos Dias and Costodio Dias, it is clear that this operation is run by some of the most highly respected professionals in the international wine-world.
The Bairrada region, where Principal brand varietals are grown, has the unique mixture of Mediterranean and Atlantic climate, due to its location just south of Porto in Northern Portugal. Meaning, this area is influenced by Atlantic sea breezes and protected by the mountain ranges, Caramulo and Bucaco, allowing for hot days and cool nights during the summer; ideal weather for grape growing. The vines in this area grow exposed to sun and are planted in soft hills of clay-limestone soils, creating the perfect balance of terroir for viticulture. The Bairrada terroir along with the modernity of the state-of-the-art vineyard, and the expertise of the IDEALDRINKS team allow for the perfect combination for creating award-winning wines in Portugal.
Currently, Principal wines are only imported into the United States by Strategic Importers in South Florida.
History & Wine 
Leave a Reply