Protected from the Atlantic winds by the Marão mountain range, the Baixo Corgo basin, made up of narrow, rugged valleys, has a unique microclimate which, combined with the nature of its schist soil, allows vineyards cultivated using traditional methods to produce grapes of excellent quality. In the 18th century, in 1756, the unique characteristics of the region led the Marquis of Pombal to create the Douro Demarcated Region, the first region in the world defined and regulated in order to protect the inimitable qualities of the wines produced there. However, it is important to mention that these unique characteristics of the wine are only possible thanks to the spirit of sacrifice of the people of the region, who with their perseverance and at the cost of much suffering, have had the courage to tame the difficult geography of the territory, knowing how to get the best out of it. It is also important to mention that the municipality of Vila Real is the image of several wines whose quality is known and recognized internationally. An example of this is the famous Mateus Rosé, which since its origins has featured the famous Casa de Mateus on its label and, more recently, the wines of the Adega de Vila Real, distinguished nationally and internationally in different specialty competitions.