Reserva Branco DOC Alentejo 2020

Vineyards

Produced from vineyards in Alentejo’s Serra do Mendro region, this wine draws from the distinct terroirs of Herdade Aldeia de Cima. Vineyards are located at elevations ranging from 289 to 380 metres, with a rich mix of limestone and schist soils. This varied topography enables 24 micro-terroirs, imparting unique minerality and structure to the wine, while sustainable viticulture supports the land’s biodiversity.

Winemaking

This blend of Antão Vaz, Arinto, and Alvarinho grapes is crafted with precision, including fermentation on fine lees in French oak, which lends body and complexity. The wine ages for 9-12 months in 3000-litre French oak vats, enhancing texture without overpowering its fresh, fruit-forward character.

Appearance

A pale, straw yellow with a luminous clarity.

Nose

An expressive nose, with aromas of citrus, white peach, and subtle almond and floral undertones. Notes of minerality and toasty nuances from the oak ageing add depth.

Palate

On the palate, this wine is vibrant yet balanced, offering flavours of stone fruit, citrus, and a hint of toasted nuts. The mineral backbone from the limestone soils provides a structured, refined mouthfeel, leading to a long, refreshing finish with balanced acidity.

Food pairing

Ideal with grilled seafood, poultry, or dishes with creamy sauces, as well as Alentejo’s local cuisine.

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.