Vineyards
This wine is crafted in the Monção e Melgaço sub-region of Vinho Verde, Portugal’s premier area for Alvarinho. The region’s cooler Atlantic-influenced climate and mineral-rich soils provide ideal conditions for Alvarinho, producing wines with freshness, minerality, and intensity.
Winemaking
Made from 100% Alvarinho, this wine is fermented in stainless steel to preserve its aromatic clarity and mineral backbone. The winemaking focuses on maintaining the grape’s natural acidity and vibrant character, with no oak influence.
Appearance
A bright citrine yellow with crystalline clarity, reflecting the wine’s youthful energy.
Nose
The nose is expressive and layered, featuring notes of citrus, white peach, and hints of saline, with a touch of lychee and herbal undertones.
Palate
Fresh and lively on the palate, it delivers flavours of green apple, lemon zest, and a hint of sea spray, balanced by a crisp acidity and a light, mineral-driven finish. The wine is textured yet refreshing, showcasing the characteristic minerality of Vinho Verde’s terroir.
Food pairing
An excellent match for shellfish, seafood platters, or light salads, enhancing its refreshing and mineral character.
Background story
Founded in 1899 in the heart of the Monção e Melgaço sub-region of Portugal’s Vinho Verde, Quinta de Santiago is a family-owned estate with a long tradition of viticulture. Originally dedicated to growing grapes for local cooperatives, the estate transformed in 2011 when Joana Santiago, inspired by her grandmother Mariazinha’s vision, took the ambitious step of establishing their own winery. This decision united three generations of the Santiago family in a shared mission: to create wines that reflect the unique terroir of Monção e Melgaço while honouring their family legacy.
Joana, who left her career in law, now leads the estate with a commitment to sustainable, organic practices and minimal intervention. Her work with consultant winemaker Nuno Mira do Ó, renowned for his dedication to terroir-driven wines, has solidified Quinta de Santiago’s reputation for quality. The wines, particularly their Alvarinho, are known for their vibrant acidity, minerality, and the ability to age well, showcasing the potential of native varieties in the Vinho Verde region.
The winery’s range includes classic Vinho Verde and textural Alvarinhos that capture the purity of the Atlantic-influenced climate. Notably, Quinta de Santiago collaborates with Pedro Ribeiro of Rocim to produce Santiago na Ânfora do Rocim, an Alvarinho aged in Italian amphorae, embodying their innovative approach to winemaking. This collaboration highlights the family’s dedication to tradition and innovation, producing wines that reflect both the legacy and the evolving story of Quinta de Santiago.
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