Vale D. Maria Branco

Description

Vale D. Maria Origin of the grapes: Just as D. Maria II, which enabled the river to navigate toward the Upper Douro, we sought to recreate that journey in this wine: rich, intense, and reflecting our spirit of adventure. We ventured up the Douro into the Upper Douro subregion. Along the historic and beautiful valley of the Sabor River, we selected vineyards with a blend of varieties that capture the freshness, density and liveliness of this subregion. Vinification and ageing: Rabigato is one of the noblest grapes of the Douro, especially prominent in the Upper Douro for its ability to retain freshness. The floral character and great balance of Viosinho combine harmoniously with aromatic, fuller-bodied Arinto. Made entirely in our cellar, fermentation occurs in barrels, giving the wine a well-integrated woody profile. The wine matures in the same French oak barrels, carefully chosen from the finest cooperages. Prizes: Robert Parker 87‑89 pts