Soalheiro Tinto

Description

Soalheiro IG Minho. The first red from Soalheiro: a new expression of the Vinho Verde Region Soalheiro Oppaco marks a milestone in the house’s history, being the first red wine produced by the estate that has become synonymous with excellence in Alvarinho. This innovative red springs from a blend of three native varieties of the Vinho Verde Region – Alvarelhão, Vinhão and Alvarinho – resulting in a surprising, fresh and elegant profile. The project began in 2013 as a blend of Alvarinho and Vinhão, an audacious attempt to tame the intensity of Vinhão with the elegance of Alvarinho. Later, Pinot Noir was added, further enhancing softness and balance. Today the blend has settled into the combination that best captures the wine’s spirit: Alvarelhão, reviving an ancient variety; Vinhão, expressive and vibrant; and Alvarinho, which provides freshness and finesse. The name “Oppaco” precisely alludes to this being Soalheiro’s first red – a new chapter with its own soul. Suggested pairings: Soalheiro Oppaco is extremely versatile at the table. It pairs well with dishes such as: fatty fish (tuna, confit cod), white meats (chicken, turkey, duck), red meats (lamb, goat, game), aged cheeses and traditional Minho cuisine, like the classic lamprey. Terroir and winemaking: The red grapes come from old vines on granite soils and cool nights – ideal conditions for a balanced wine with deep colour and natural freshness. Alvarelhão and Vinhão are destemmed, with pre‑fermentation maceration on the crusher for 24–48 h. Fermentation uses gentle pressing to avoid excessive extraction. Alvarinho is fermented without maceration, in stainless steel, with a fining step on fine lees. After malolactic fermentation, the wines age for 12 months in three different vessels: a stainless‑steel tank, a 12‑L French foudre, and French oak barrels. Total acidity: 5.8 g/dm³ | pH: 3.44 | Residual sugar: Dry | Volatile acidity: 0.57 g/dm³ Awards 92/100 Adega Portugal 2020 – Wine Guide 16.5/20 Julia Harding MW – jancisrobinson.com 2020

Taste this wine at:

Quinta Casa Amarela

Lamego Douro Wine Shop Accommodation

Quinta da Alorna

Almeirim Tejo Wine Shop

Quinta da Aveleda

Penafiel Vinho Verde Wine Shop

Quinta da Casa Amarela

Bucelas Lisboa Wine Shop Pool

Quinta da Pacheca

Monção Douro Wine Shop