Taboadella Grande Villae White 2020 Dão

Vineyards

Located on a high plateau in Silvã de Cima, Dão, Taboadella’s vineyards are known for their granitic soils and high altitude, which enhances the wine’s freshness and mineral complexity. Cultivated using sustainable practices, these vineyards showcase the character of the region with native grape varieties thriving in the balanced maritime and continental climate of the area.

Winemaking

The 2020 Grande Villae White is crafted from a blend of Encruzado, Bical, and Cercial. Encruzado adds richness, Bical contributes delicate floral aromas, and Cercial brings a touch of austerity to the blend. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for nine months in French oak barrels, enhancing its structure and adding a creamy texture that balances with the vibrant acidity. This oak treatment gives the wine depth and subtle oak influence, which complements its fruit-forward profile.

Appearance

Bright straw yellow, with hints of green that reflect its freshness.

Nose

An aromatic complexity featuring floral notes, ripe citrus, and subtle hints of oak, along with a mineral edge that is characteristic of the Dão terroir.

Palate

The Grande Villae White 2020 is firm and well-structured on the palate, with vibrant acidity and a silky texture. Flavours of white peach, citrus, and a mineral undertone offer a long, persistent finish with a refined linearity, highlighting the terroir’s influence.

Food pairing

Ideal with fresh seafood, poultry dishes, and creamy cheeses, as well as more delicate fish-based dishes that align with its acidity and richness.

Accolades

93 points, Wine Enthusiast, 90 points, Wine Advocate

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.