Region and Vineyards
The vineyards for Curtimenta are located in the renowned Monção e Melgaço sub-region, within the Vinho Verde DOC in Portugal. Known for its cool Atlantic climate and granitic soils, this region is ideal for cultivating the Alvarinho grape, which thrives under these conditions, developing natural acidity and aromatic intensity.
The vines used for this wine are more than 14 years old, yielding low production of concentrated grapes. The careful vineyard management ensures a balance between high acidity and optimal ripeness, essential for producing a wine with both freshness and depth.
Winemaking
Curtimenta is crafted using traditional techniques combined with modern precision. The handpicked grapes are transported swiftly to the winery to preserve their integrity. A skin maceration process follows, with the juice fermenting on the skins for a few hours, enhancing color, tannins, and complexity.
The fermentation is completed in 400-liter used French oak barrels, where the wine remains for 9 months on its lees, undergoing bâtonnage to increase richness and mouthfeel. After this period, the wine is aged further in the bottle for 12 months, allowing flavors to integrate and develop fully. This meticulous process results in a wine that is structured, complex, and vibrant.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Golden hue with hints of amber, reflecting the skin contact.
- Aroma: A complex bouquet of hay, cinnamon, and subtle spicy notes, intertwined with a pronounced mineral character.
- Palate: Vibrant and textured, with slight herbaceous notes, a distinct mineral backbone, and fresh, lively acidity. The wine is full-bodied, with a long and evolving finish, showcasing its layered complexity and elegance.
Did You Know?
Curtimenta refers to the traditional technique of fermenting white wines with skin contact, a practice that adds tannins, structure, and a distinctive amber tone to the wine. This method, combined with aging in oak barrels, allows Curtimenta to stand out as one of the most innovative interpretations of Alvarinho.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter: Enhances the wine’s mineral notes and acidity.
- Roasted Chicken with Herb Sauce: Balances the wine’s richness and herbaceous character.
- Bacalhau à Brás (Salt Cod with Eggs and Potatoes): A classic Portuguese pairing that complements the wine’s texture and complexity.
- Aged Goat Cheese: The acidity and structure of the wine harmonize beautifully with the tanginess of the cheese.
