First White 2023

Quinta do Vallado is one of the oldest and most renowned wine estates in the Douro Valley, Portugal. Founded in 1716, it has belonged to the same family for more than 300 years. It was established by Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, a legendary figure of Port wine and the Douro. Combining history and modernity to produce wines of exceptional quality, the estate embodies the excellence and authenticity of Portuguese wines.

This cuvée differs from classic Muscats in its dry, mineral character. The wine comes from two vineyards: 50% old Muscat vines over 30 years old and 50% from a vineyard planted in the mid-1990s. The grapes are harvested by hand to guarantee optimal bunch quality and avoid any premature crushing. The skins are left in contact with the juice before fermentation in stainless-steel tanks. The wine then ages for 3 months on its fine lees in stainless-steel tanks. This wine reveals intense aromas of pear, green apple, melon and citrus such as lemon and grapefruit, accompanied by floral and herbaceous touches. The palate is taut, fresh and saline, completed by a light minerality on the finish.

Portugal's rich history is intertwined with its wines, particularly its most famous wine, Port. From the ancient cities of Lisbon and Porto to small medieval towns and Roman ruins, the past is still alive today in modern Portugal. A great vacation in the heart of this country, where Port wines were born, is a unique way to experience Old World culture, climate, beautiful countryside and of course delicious wines. Although the history of wine in Portugal dates back to the Romans, it was not until the early 19th century that the wine we know today as Port came into being. Table wine from Portugal was already in high demand since the mid-17th century, mainly by the British. To make rustic Portuguese wines more stable and palatable, small amounts of brandy were added to wine barrels before shipping. Eventually, British companies began to invest in the region and perfected the process of adding brandy during fermentation, rather than after, which helped preserve the distinctive fruity flavors of red wine that were unique to the Douro Valley region of Portugal. In recent years, a small revolution has occurred in the Douro region in terms of the development of modern style dry red and white wines, alongside the very traditional production of Port wines. Table wines also continue to play an important role. The increase in investments, the improvement of viticultural techniques and the modernization of the industry are producing interesting results. What is unique about Portugal is the very large number (over 500) of indigenous (although sometimes unpronounceable) grape varieties. Even most wine experts aren't familiar with the grapes that produce Port, Madeira, or any other Portuguese wine. Like its neighbor Spain, Portugal has been experiencing a quiet revolution for around twenty years. The reluctance to follow trends and plant international grape varieties is now paying off and the new breed of wines full of "terroir effect" and fruit are more than capable of competing on the world stage. The unique flavors that characterize Portugal's native grape varieties have become its strength. Good news for those looking for a change from wines made from the ubiquitous international grape varieties. The terroir is so diverse. From north to south, from east to west, from the mountains to the maritime vineyards, hot and dry or cool and green. In every style, from vinho verde to port, from dry, crisp whites to elegant reds, in so many different ways, Portuguese wines are unique.