António Madeira - Vinhas Velhas Tinto 2021
(Dão, Portugal)
Blended from special parcels of vines ranging in age from 70 to 100+ years old, the Vinhas Velhas Tinto. Composed mainly of Baga, Jaen, and Tinta Amarela, with over 15 other local varieties in the mix, this is an inky, intensely juicy wine with finely balanced tannins and a pronounced salinity. Brimming with energy and layered with the flavours and aromas of these historic vineyards, this sets a new standard for Portuguese wine.
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.