Wine

Primeiras Vinhas has a bright lemon to golden-yellow colour and a concentrated ripe fruit aroma with buttery notes and plenty of spice. It boasts an elegant, vibrant flavour that is very firm and tropical tasting in its youth and gets bigger with ageing. Its full body perfectly balanced with a crisp acidity. These complexities are due to the early ripening of the Alvarinho on the suntrap, nicknamed ‘Soalheiro’, where this first planted vineyard is located.

Region

The Minho wine region, also known as the Vinho Verde region, is located in the northwest of Portugal. It is one of the country’s most well-known wine regions and is primarily known for producing Vinho Verde wines. The Minho region has a maritime climate, influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is characterized by mild temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rainfall. These conditions are conducive to the growth of grapes and contribute to the region’s vibrant, green landscape.

Terroir

The microclimate that influences the production of Alvarinho grapes in this territory is unique. Monção and Melgaço, Portugal’s northernmost territory, is protected by a set of mountains that allow a perfect combination between rainfall, temperature, and the number of sunshine hours. These are necessary for the best maturation of the grapes of the Alvarinho grape variety. This good sun exposure – a ‘soalheiro’ (sunny) location – also gave its name to the parcel that was in the origin of the brand and also Primeiras Vinhas.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested by hand from the old vines in our territory. The wine is fermented mostly in stainless steel, with 15% fermented in oak vessels – in old foudre barrels for added richness. “The philosophy is to have more lees contact through bâtonnage. This gives structure to the wine and a different character”, explains our winemaker. The wine ages for 6 months.

Food Suggestions

The wine made from the oldest vines features lively acidity with added complexity from the barrel, making it a versatile match for many plates. It pairs well with seafood, all kinds of fish, poultry dishes, mature cheeses, smoked meats, or Asian and Mediterranean gastronomies. Certified vegan.

Ideal serving temperature –  10°C.