Cova da Beira wine Cova da Beira wine Cova da Beira is a Portuguese wine region centered on the Cova da Beira region between the Dão and Vinho Verde DOCs in the wider Beiras VR wine region. Cova da Beira was initially a separate "Indicação de Proveniencia Regulamentada" (IPR) region (and was the largest IPR in Portugal in terms of land planted with vines), but in 2005, it became one of three subregions of the Beira Interior DOC, which has the higher "Denominação de Origem Controlada" (DOC) status. Its name may still be indicated together with that of Beira Interior, as Beira Interior-Cova da
Rioja (wine) La Rioja wine region, whereas the south-southwestern part of the La Rioja region is not a part of this Protected designation of origin. Located on the western edge of the region and at higher elevations than the other areas, the Rioja Alta is known more for its "old world" style of wine. A higher elevation equates to a shorter growing season, which in turn produces brighter fruit flavors and a wine that is lighter on the palate. Despite sharing a similar climate as the Alta region, the Rioja Alavesa produces wines with a fuller body and higher acidity. Vineyards in