This week, we are pleased to highlight Quinta do Vale Meão 2021 as our Wine of the Week. Selected for its exceptional quality and representation of the Douro terroir, this wine symbolizes the perfect harmony between tradition and innovation. The choice reflects our commitment to presenting our readers with wines that not only delight the palate, but also tell a story.
Vineyards and Terroir
Quinta do Vale Meão is located in the Douro Superior sub-region, characterized by its extreme climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters. This microclimate, combined with predominantly schist soils, gives the wines remarkable intensity and complexity. The vineyards are planted at different altitudes, which allows a balanced maturation of the grapes, essential for the production of wines with great freshness and vigor.
Winemaking and Winemaker
Under the supervision of Francisco Olazabal, Quinta do Vale Meão combines ancestral techniques with innovation to create Vale Meão 2021, a wine that captures the essence of its terroir. The rigorous selection and manual harvesting of the grapes guarantee the high quality of the final product. Fermentation takes place in granite mills, using traditional foot treading, for careful extraction that preserves the aromas and tannic structure. Aging follows in French oak barrels, varying according to the wine, essential for its complexity and smoothness. This process reflects the passion and dedication to wine, paying homage to the legacy of the Ferreira family and standing out for the exceptional quality of the wines produced, true expressions of their magnificent terroir.
Test results
When tasting Quinta do Vale Meão 2021, we are greeted by a symphony of complex aromas, from ripe fruits to subtle notes of spices. The silky texture and well-integrated tannins provide an immersive sensorial experience. This wine is balanced and elegant, with a long finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Reviews and Awards
With a series of awards won, Quinta do Vale Meão wines stand out as true ambassadors of winemaking excellence, adding value to its reputation. This constant appreciation is a testament to the consistent quality of this wine, which continues to captivate connoisseurs around the world. I, Paulo Castro, attribute 96 points to Quinta do Vale Meão 2021, recognizing it not only for its balance and elegance, but also for its aromatic complexity and the perfect harmony between ripe fruit, spicy notes and a delicate touch of wood. Its soft tannic structure, combined with well-integrated acidity, gives it exceptional freshness and longevity, making this wine an authentic expression of the Douro terroir. This score reflects my appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail in winemaking, as well as the potential for evolution of this wine, which will undoubtedly continue to surprise and delight in the years to come.
Conclusion
Quinta do Vale Meão 2021 is an authentic expression of the Douro terroir, exemplifying the art of Portuguese winemaking at its best. We highly recommend our readers to try this exceptional wine, which promises to be a memorable addition to any collection.
