Frades Branco

Description

The Frades Colheita Branco 2024 is a limited‑production wine made from Malvasia Fina, Gouveio and Rabigato grapes sourced from vines about 40 years old on the Quinta do Castelo estate in the Baixo Corgo sub‑region. Planted at altitude in a cooler, more humid climate, these vines preserve the grapes’ natural acidity, essential for the freshness and liveliness of Douro whites. Production is limited by the scarcity of white vines on the estate, reinforcing the wine’s exclusive character. After a manual harvest, the grapes go straight to a pneumatic press where they are gently pressed. The must is cooled and decanted for 48 hours before fermentation begins in a temperature‑controlled stainless‑steel tank, preserving aromatic purity and varietal expression. The wine ages four months in stainless steel and at least two months in the bottle, released young to showcase maximum fruit expression. Bottled in May 2025, it produced 6,656 750‑ml bottles. On the glass it shows a pale lemon‑yellow colour and a medium‑intensity aroma with citrus notes of lemon and pear, complemented by hints of white plum. On the palate it offers a light‑to‑medium body, dry profile, vibrant acidity and flavours of citrus and white stone fruit. The finish is dry, lively and refreshing. Serve at 8 °C and pair perfectly with salads, lightly seasoned Asian cuisine, shellfish and grilled fish.