Vineyards
Situated on the elevated granitic terrain of the Dão region, Taboadella’s vineyards benefit from the cool Atlantic-influenced climate and high altitudes of Silvã de Cima. These elements allow for slower grape ripening, enhancing the freshness and structure of the wine while preserving the expressive character of the Encruzado, Bical, and Cercial grape varieties that thrive here.
Winemaking
The Villae Branco 2021 is a blend dominated by Encruzado (40%), complemented by Bical (40%) and Cercial Branco (20%). This composition brings together Encruzado’s richness, Bical’s floral elegance, and Cercial’s natural austerity. To maintain the wine’s vibrant acidity and fruit purity, it is unoaked, relying instead on stainless steel fermentation and careful temperature control, which preserves the aromatic intensity and mineral expression of the wine.
Appearance
Bright golden-green hues highlight the wine’s freshness and intensity.
Nose
On the nose, it reveals delicate floral aromas alongside green apple and citrus blossoms. These are balanced by a mineral note that brings out the crispness typical of Dão whites.
Palate
The palate is lively, with flavours of green apple, citrus, and white peach, accompanied by an invigorating acidity that adds energy and balance. This wine’s structured body and creamy texture are offset by its mineral edge, making for an elegant finish.
Food pairing
Perfect with Portuguese seafood dishes, such as Bacalhau or grilled fish, and excellent alongside Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, including seared halibut with fennel or creamy poultry dishes that complement its balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile.
Accolades
93 Decanter, 90 James Suckling
Background story
Located in the Dão region, the Taboadella estate combines deep historical roots with modern winemaking. The Amorim family, known for their contributions to the wine industry since 1870, purchased the estate and revitalized its unique 42-hectare vineyard in Silvã de Cima. Sitting on a high plateau between the Vale do Pereiro and Vale do Sequeiro valleys, this vineyard benefits from granite soils and a climate influenced by both Atlantic and continental patterns. These elements foster a balanced environment, where native Portuguese grape varieties thrive without irrigation, preserving the land’s authentic expression.
Taboadella’s winery, designed by architect Carlos Castanheira, reflects the family’s commitment to sustainability and precision. Using natural materials like cork and wood, the building is integrated into the landscape, with advanced gravity flow systems that minimize handling and protect the fruit’s integrity. Wines are aged in French oak barrels crafted from century-old trees, a process that enhances the wines' elegance and complexity.
Beyond its contemporary revival, Taboadella’s history dates back to Roman times, evident from ancient relics such as a 1st-century wine press carved into monolithic rock, underscoring the area’s longstanding winemaking heritage. This unique blend of ancient tradition and modern expertise allows Taboadella’s wines to authentically capture the essence of the Dão terroir, embodying both the legacy and future of this historic wine region.
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