Antonio Madeira - Vinhas Velhas Branco 2021

(Dão, Portugal)

Antonio's flagship whites, and one of Portugal's most celebrated wines. This blend of many different varieties from old vineyards of field blends is dominant in Siria, Fernão Pires, Bical, Encruzado, and Cerceal. An astounding example of the potential of traditionally planted old vineyards on sandy granite and a very hands off vinification. Saline, layered, complex, and very long.

Made by António Madeira, a rising star of Portuguese wine who in 2017 moved his family from Paris back to his grandparents' village in the Dão region of Portugal.  António believes this region to hold the 'Grand Cru' vineyards of Portugal, and searches tirelessly to rescue them, along with the dozens of traditional local grape varieties they hold within them.  His winemaking style is one which pays ultimate respect to the special characters of these old vineyards, revealing the beauty the vines extract from these lovingly regenerated soils.