Dão red wines come from a wide variety of grapes. They include Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro, Tinta Roriz, Jaen, Baga, Bastardo and Tinta Pinheira. The wines can range from thin to full-bodied due to multiple altitudes that these wines are grown in. The wines normally are packed with plum and cherry flavors which are supported by firm tannins. They pair well with a wide range of food making them an easy choice for a dinner. Being surrounded by mountains on all sides has its advantages. The Dão region is protected from the climate of the continent and from the ocean. The elevation also gives the wine much of its character. Elevation ranges between 600 feet to 3,000 feet at some points. Most vineyards have small plots dotted through various hillsides and elevations. The soil is very poor making for stronger vines that can survive the shifts from cool nights to hot days. The region is still considered off the beaten path and great value can be found in many of the wines. The lusher wines have the ability to age for up to 20 years or possibly more.