Garrafeira Branco DOC Alentejo 2019

Vineyards

This wine is crafted from select grapes grown on the elevated Serra do Mendro in Alentejo. The vineyards span various micro-terroirs, each bringing distinct influences that contribute to the wine’s complexity. With elevations from 289 to 380 metres, the vineyard’s mineral-rich, skeletal soils provide the ideal environment for Antão Vaz (70%), Arinto (25%), and Alvarinho (5%).

Winemaking

The wine is produced with traditional methods, including slow decantation at low temperatures in stainless steel. It undergoes fermentation sur lie in large 3000-litre French oak balseiros, enhancing its creamy texture and natural balance. The Radoux oak barrels, chosen for their ability to allow gentle oxygenation, provide structure without overpowering the wine’s natural fruit character. After fermentation, the wine matures for 15 months, developing depth and finesse.

Appearance

Bright golden hue with a clear, luminous quality, reflecting its meticulous crafting.

Nose

Complex and aromatic, with floral scents accompanied by citrus, tropical fruits, and delicate almond undertones. Subtle earthy notes add depth, showcasing the wine’s origin and terroir.

Palate

Rich and structured, the palate reveals layered flavours of ripe peach, apricot, and citrus balanced by vibrant acidity. The creamy texture from the oak aging and the fine mineral backbone contribute to a long, refined finish, making this wine a true expression of Alentejo.

Food pairing

Perfect with poultry, creamy sauces, or grilled seafood, and pairs well with traditional Mediterranean dishes, enhancing the wine’s depth and elegance.

Background story

Herdade Aldeia de Cima is an expansive 1750-hectare estate located in Alentejo near Santana, Portugal, owned by the Amorim family. Integrating diverse landscapes—cork and holm oak forests, ancient olive groves, and vineyards—the estate follows sustainable agroforestry practices with a mission to restore biodiversity in the Serra do Mendro. This approach harmonises traditional methods with minimal intervention to protect Alentejo’s natural heritage and local ecosystem.

Situated at Serra do Mendro's highest point, the vineyards benefit from 34 distinct micro-terroirs that enhance the wine’s expression of native grape varieties. The estate’s vineyards, currently transitioning to organic production, are dedicated to Alentejo’s heritage, with native red and white varieties crafted into three wine ranges: Reserva, Garrafeira, and Myndru. Reserva highlights classic Alentejo elegance, Garrafeira offers structured, bottle-aged wines, while Myndru captures delicate aromatics from skeletal soils.

Each wine is released two years post-harvest to achieve full complexity, celebrating the region's winemaking tradition and commitment to environmental balance.