Soalheiro Pé Franco Alvarinho Branco 2020

Grape Varieties: Alvarinho

Terroir: The grapes for this wine come from a vineyard planted in Pé Franco, in soils with a sandier character, in the Minho River valley. The vineyards, in Monção and Melgaço, benefit from a very particular microclimate, protected by the mountains from the Atlantic influence and with greater sun exposure, where the warmer temperatures will result, on the one hand, in a more discreet aromatic component and, on the other, in a greater concentration of tannins and greater complexity.

Tasting Note: Pé Franco has an intense floral aroma, different from the usual wine made with the Alvarinho variety. In the mouth it is persistent, due to the contact with the skins during fermentation, which gives it more body and a slight astringency.

Vinification: The grapes are destemmed and ferment in contact with the skins for about two weeks. After this period, they are pressed and, now without the skins, the wine remains in barrels where it will finish fermentation and will age. Throughout the evolution process, the barrel is moved in order to allow a total batônnage. That is, when the barrel is turned, the fine lees at the bottom mix completely with the wine, giving it more structure and complexity.

Gastronomy: It goes well with strong dishes, namely red meat and roasts.

Winemaker: Luís Cerdeira