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Writer's pictureMiguel Viana

Adega da Vara, Consorte

Welcome to the exciting world of Portuguese wine! Today we'll be exploring a unique and exquisite white wine from the Minho region, made from 100% Arinto grapes. This wine is a true masterpiece, and I am excited to share my tasting experience with you.





The Minho region is located in the northwest of Portugal and is known for its mild climate, with high levels of humidity and rainfall. These conditions create the perfect environment for grapevines to grow, and the Arinto grape variety is no exception. The grapes used to make this wine were grown in the Place of Fundões, in Castelo de Paiva. The vineyard is approximately 20 years old, and the grapes are grown at an altitude of 200m with south/southwest sun exposure. This unique combination of factors contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of the wine.


The winemaking process of this wine is also noteworthy. The vineyard is certified in Integrated Production Mode, which means that it follows a sustainable approach to farming that respects the environment and human health. The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully selected to ensure that only the best grapes are used.


As I took my first sip of the 100% Arinto variety Portuguese wine, I was immediately struck by its unique and complex profile. The wine had a bright golden color, with subtle hints of green. The aroma was intensely floral, with notes of citrus and stone fruit. On the palate, the wine was crisp and refreshing, with a well-balanced acidity that was perfectly complemented by a creamy texture.


This particular vintage was produced in the region of Castelo de Paiva, a place known for its warm and sunny climate, which provides ideal conditions for the growth of the Arinto grape. The winemaking process itself is also noteworthy, as it involves traditional methods that have been used for centuries, such as the use of a stick press from the 19th century.


The grapes are carefully deseeded and pressed before being left to ferment with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels. The winemakers take a hands-off approach, allowing the fermentation to occur naturally without controlling the temperature. This allows the wine to develop its unique flavors and aromas.


After fermentation, the wine is aged on fine lees in the same barrels for about 18 months, with regular batonnage to enhance the wine's texture and complexity. The wine is then filtered and bottled according to the biodynamic calendar, which takes into account the lunar cycles to determine the best time for bottling.


Finally, it's worth mentioning that the Arinto variety is often referred to as an "improving" variety in many Portuguese regions. This is because its firm acidity makes it an excellent candidate for blending with other varieties, allowing winemakers to create more complex and flavorful wines.


All in all, if you're looking for a high-quality white wine that offers vibrant flavors and lively acidity, look no further than Consorte. With its unique combination of characteristics, it's sure to delight your palate and leave you craving more. When it comes to harmonizing food and wine, the options are endless. However, finding the perfect pairing can be a challenge. Luckily, I have discovered a fantastic white wine that makes any dish shine - Consorte made with the Arinto variety. Consorte is a vibrant and refreshing white wine that offers lively acidity and strong mineral notes, making it an excellent choice for pairing with a variety of dishes.Whether you're enjoying a salted sea bass or a lobster gratin, or a more substantial meal like a seafood cataplana, or a pork lombelo stuffed with ham and prawns, this wine has the versatility to complement any dish.


In conclusion, this white wine from the Minho region is a true masterpiece. Its unique flavor profile is a result of the perfect combination of climate, geography, and winemaking techniques. As I sip this wine, I can't help but be transported to the sunny hills of Castelo de Paiva, where the grapes for this wine were grown. If you're a wine enthusiast or critic, I highly recommend trying this wine for yourself and experiencing its unique and delightful flavors.


Oenology : Rui Walter Cunha and Júlio César Teixeira


Text: Miguel Viana Vinhos









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