Os Granitos 2021

Located in the Dão wine region of central Portugal, Antonio Madeira's vineyard stretches across high-altitude granite slopes, surrounded by forests and small, old plots. The vines, often planted in old mixed plantings, are rooted in poor, sandy-granitic soils that promote low yields and a strong mineral expression. The climate is continental with Atlantic influences, offering warm days and cool nights, which allows for slow ripening of the grapes and preserves the natural freshness and balance of the red wines produced on this terroir.

The grapes are hand-harvested from old granite vines, then partially destemmed before spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in vats, with gentle extraction to preserve finesse. Maceration takes place without any oenological additives, except for minimal sulfur if necessary. Aging then occurs in vats and old barrels, on fine lees, to preserve the purity of the fruit, the minerality, and the expression of the terroir, without seeking pronounced oak influence.

This wine reveals notes of fresh red berries , black berries , and violet , complemented by delicate spicy touches and a subtle minerality linked to the granitic soils. On the palate, it is elegant, with a silky texture, lively acidity that provides energy, fine yet present tannins , and a saline , persistent finish that highlights the purity of the fruit and the freshness of the terroir.

Portugal's rich history is inextricably linked to its wines, especially its most famous, Port. From the ancient cities of Lisbon and Porto to small medieval towns and Roman ruins, the past is still very much alive in modern Portugal. A wonderful holiday in the heart of this country, where Port wines originated, is a unique way to experience Old World culture, the climate, the beautiful countryside, and of course, the delicious wines. Although the history of wine in Portugal dates back to the Romans, it wasn't until the early 19th century that the wine we know today as Port came into being. Portuguese table wine had already been in high demand since the mid-17th century, primarily by the British. To make rustic Portuguese wines more stable and palatable, small amounts of brandy were added to the wine barrels before shipping. Eventually, British companies began investing in the region and perfected the process of adding brandy during fermentation, rather than after, which helped preserve the distinctive fruity flavors of the red wine that were unique to Portugal's Douro Valley. In recent years, a small revolution has taken place in the Douro region in terms of developing modern-style dry red and white wines, alongside the very traditional production of Port wines. Table wines also continue to play an important role. Increased investment, improved winemaking techniques, and the modernization of the industry are yielding interesting results. What is unique to Portugal is the very large number (over 500) of indigenous grape varieties (though some are unpronounceable). Even most wine experts are unfamiliar with the grapes that produce Port, Madeira, or any other Portuguese wine. Like its neighbor Spain, Portugal has been experiencing a quiet revolution for the past two decades. The reluctance to follow trends and plant international grape varieties is now bearing fruit, and the new breed of wines, brimming with terroir and fruit, is more than capable of competing on the world stage. The unique flavors that characterize Portugal's indigenous grape varieties have become its strength. This is good news for those seeking a change from the ubiquitous international grape-based wines. The terroir is so diverse. From north to south, east to west, from mountainous to coastal vineyards, hot and dry or cool and green. In every style, from vinho verde to port, from crisp, dry whites to elegant reds, in so many different ways, Portuguese wines are unique.