António Madeira Vinhas Velhas Branco 2022

Grape Varieties: Field blend of 20 native grape varieties, based on 75% of Síria, Fernão Pires, Bical, Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Arinto and Cerceal.

Soil: Granite

Vineyard: 20 small old vineyards around 50 to 130 years old.

Vinification: The vinification philosophy was to respect the grapes and nature and focus on seeking the expression of the terroir of Serra da Estrela, thus, no other product was used except sulfur. After smooth pressing, gravity decanting lasted 1 day, without use of enzymes or enological products. Alcoholic fermentation took place 500L barrels and stainless steel tank and began naturally, with the indigenous yeast, to express its identity in the purest form. Alcoholic fermentation was very slow and lasted 10 months, which helps to increase complexity. Malolactic is done and long ageing before bottling (2 winters), to refine the wine (Burgundian approach).

Ageing: 20 months, 10% in stainless steel tanks and 90% in 500/600L barrels (french and austrian oak)

Tasting Notes: This wine expresses the character and elegance of the land that witnessed its birth and takes us on a journey through time to discover the aromas and flavours of Serra da Estrela foothills, just as they were back in the time of our forefathers. This is complex and refined with lovely citrus fruit core and some ripe apple and pear notes. It’s quite mineral and layered with depth and complexity and subtle notes of toast, spice and lanolin. The texture and saline minerality here are fantastic. Such a multidimensional wine with lovely depth and weight.

Serving Suggestions: Seafood dishes, fish, codfish, white meat, dishes with cheese. Vegetarian suggestions: grilled vegetables or salads.