Unique Portuguese wine. Alvarinho caste.

Alvarinho is one of the greatest treasures of Portugal.
It is from the sub-region of Monção and Melgaço that Alvarinho reveals and achieves the maximum of its potential, in a unique territory, due to natural reasons related to soil and the microclimate.

It is considered by recognized experts the best Portuguese white grape and one of the best grapes in the world.

Monção and Melgaço, not far away from the Atlantic Ocean, keep themselves protected against sea winds by mountains in a natural relation that allows the perfect conjugation between the rainfall, temperature and the number of hours of sunshine necessary to the best maturation of the Alvarinho grapes.

The vineyards cultivated in amphitheaters of natural beauty are placed in a sunny location refreshed by the Minho river.

Alvarinho is a white grape from the vitis specie, which originates very small bunches, winged and compact, leading to an unproductive grape, aspect that is contemplated in the Statutes of The Region, which gives it a maximum efficiency per hectare of 60 hl against 80 hl for the other grapes.

It originates unique wines, easily identifiable, combined qualities, such as its strong temperament and personality.

With citric colour and splendid flavor, Alvarinho is exquisite, bond and robust, besides its elegance, balance and minerality. Its acidity and freshness make Alvarinho a vibrant and cheerful wine.

The alcoholic strength of Alvarinho wine is 11,5% vol., all above the traditional standards of other green wines (9%).

There are several theories about the origin of Alvarinho caste. It is said that it came from Reno, others say that it came from Greece and others (maybe the right ones) say that it came from the Northeast of Iberian Peninsula, more precisely from this Sub-region, where, all over the centuries, Alvarinho adapted itself to the soil and climate characteristics.

By the Decree-law 275/73, the tradition was confirmed and legalized in Portugal.

The designation of origin Alvarinho was assigned to the wine produced exclusively in the Sub-region of Monção and Melgaço of the Demarcated Region of Green Wines, where there are the ideal conditions of microclimate and soil to the cultivation and maturation of this unique and genuine grape.

by quintasdemelgaco.pt