Beira Interior is a Portuguese wine region located in the central part of the country, in the Beiras region. Beira Interior has a long history of winemaking, dating back to the Roman Empire. The region was known for its high-quality wines, and it was even mentioned in the writings of the Roman poet Virgil. In the Middle Ages, the region was known for its fortified wines, which were popular throughout Europe. The Beira Interior DOC came into force in 2005 with the merging of three IPR designations.
Reds are typically blended from classic Portuguese grape varieties such as Baga, Castelão, Rufete and Touriga Nacional, along with some international varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Whites are usually based on Fernão Pires, Bical and modern imports like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Beira Interior is home to some of Portugal's most famous wineries, including Quinta do Casal Branco, Quinta do Monte d'Oiro, and Quinta do Monte da Ravasqueira.
The Beira Interior hills are known as Portugal's main winter sports area, and for the Queijo Serra da Estrela ewes'-milk cheese which was granted PDO status in 2008.