Ribeiro Santo Tinto

Description

Ribeiro Santo Region: The Demarcated Region of the Dão is one of Portugal’s oldest wine regions, dating back to 1908. Located in central Portugal, in a mountainous area ranging from 400 to 700 m above sea level, its reference point is Serra da Estrela, the highest peak on mainland Portugal. The region’s name comes from the river that traverses it, the Rio Dão. The wines’ characteristics are strongly shaped by the granite terrain and by the fact that the vines are planted amid forests of pine and eucalyptus. Vines: The vines follow traditional planting and were planted on a poor granite soil with extensive rocky outcrops, from which Serra da Estrela is visible. The entire vineyard is managed under integrated production, reflecting a strong concern for environmental issues. The combination of cultural practices and the careful use of environmentally friendly products results in balanced wines. Vinification: Hand‑harvested. Total destemming. A 24‑hour cold maceration precedes alcoholic fermentation in stainless‑steel tanks. Gentle pump‑overs extract colour and aromas. The wine is racked into new 225 L French oak barrels for nine months, barrels that had previously been used for white wine fermentation. Enologist: Carlos Lucas.