Vineyard and winemaking
This Reserva Branco is made from Síria vines around 50 years old, planted at roughly 750 metres above sea level near Castelo Rodrigo. Granite-dominant soils, with schist and sand, and the wide daily temperature range of Beira Interior allow the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining their natural acidity. The estate has been certified organic since 2009.
The 2021 fruit was harvested by hand and gently pressed before fermentation at controlled temperature. Part of the wine remained on fine lees in stainless steel and part in neutral French oak, building texture and complexity while keeping the old-vine Síria character clear.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Pale straw-gold with bright reflections.
Nose
White peach, apricot and orange blossom are joined by lemon thyme and a cool, granitic mineral note.
Palate
Ample but fresh, with ripe stone fruit and citrus wrapped in a gently creamy lees texture. High-altitude acidity gives shape and drive, while the finish is dry, persistent and lightly saline.
Food pairing
Serve with grilled prawns, roast chicken with lemon and thyme, baked sea bream or a creamy leek and goat’s cheese tart. Its breadth also works well with a lightly spiced fish stew.
Background story
Quinta do Cardo is a historic estate in Beira Interior, established in 1932 on a plateau near the Douro International reserve and Castelo Rodrigo. Its high, exposed vineyards benefit from natural ventilation and comparatively low disease pressure.
The property became one of Portugal’s early certified organic estates in 2009. Its name refers to the cardo, or milk thistle, found across the land and traditionally used in Beira Interior to coagulate milk for cheese—a fitting symbol of the estate’s connection to the local landscape.
