It is the most mountainous region of mainland Portugal.

Climate with continental influence and many and important temperature variations, with summers considered short, very hot and dry, and winters with a tendency to prolong and quite cold.

It is divided into three sub-regions: Castelo Rodrigo, Pinhel and Cova da Beira, which despite being separated by mountain ranges share similar characteristics in what concerns the production and type of wine.

The most predominant white grape varieties are Arinto and Síria, among others.

In the reds, Bastardo, tinta roriz, and touriga nacional, among others, prevail.

In both cases, very old vineyards are relatively common in this region.