Alvarinho Minho Reguengo de Melgaco 2022

Alvarinho is a white variety, original from the Upper Minho, in Portugal, and Rias Baixas, in Spain, separated from each other by the Minho river - a unique wine district shared by two countries. For centuries this aromatic variety gave the reputation, at the national level, to the wines of those areas. More recently, with the development of the exports of the Iberic wines, Alvarinho started to be known abroad, with an immediate acceptance by consumers in other markets. In fact, the quality of Alvarinho wines is transversal, in the sense that it fits the idea of quality of most white wine consumers. Their aromatic complexity, sometimes with a dominant fruity character, other times with a wonderful combination of fruity and floral notes make them extremely pleasant and delicate. A balanced acidity adds the freshness that most consumers also look for in white wines.

Although the Portuguese Alvarinho district (Monção sub-region) is integrated in Vinho Verde region, their wines are remarkably different when compared with the remaining Vinho Verde wines. For this reason, the wines of Monção sub-region use the exclusive appellation "DOC Vinho Verde Alvarinho", being the only one in the Vinho Verde region that can do it. No other wines produced with Alvarinho variety in other areas of the Vinho Verde region are allowed to use that designation. The main reason for this is the fact that the Alvarinho variety assumes, in Monção sub-region, an incomparable excellence and unique character.

Reguengo de Melgaço is a historic property located in the village of Paderne. Commissioned by Queen Leonor in the 16th Century it was bought in the 1900's by its current owners, who planted 9 hectares of vineyards across two different vineyard sites. They released their first vintage in 2001 quickly establishing themselves as a benchmark Alvarinho producer.

The 9 hectares of vineyard are split between between two areas. The area surrounding the manor house that used to be part of the Minho river bed has clay-sandy soils while the vineyards in the S. Marcos hills have sandy soil of granitic origin.