It is characterized by high altitude and a fairly rigorous continental climate, with very hot summers and very cold winters.

It is divided into three sub-regions: Chaves, Valpaços and Planalto Mirandês.

As far as the soil is concerned, it is relatively poor and not very productive, which in part limits the variety of products.

These factors do not prevent, however, that there are several prominent varieties and also of great national and international importance.

The dominant grape varieties are: Códega de Larinho, Fernão Pires, Gouveio, Touriga Nacional, Touriga franca among others.