Cartuxa Pera Manca White 2016

Region and Vineyards

The wine originates from Évora, within the Alentejo region of Portugal, a renowned area for its sunny climate and diverse soils, ideal for producing complex and age-worthy wines. The vineyards are part of the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, which is deeply committed to preserving the native grape varieties of Portugal.

The Antão Vaz and Arinto grapes, integral to this wine, thrive in the warm climate and limestone-rich soils of Alentejo. The grapes are hand-harvested at the optimal point of ripeness, ensuring a perfect balance between freshness and concentration.

Winemaking

Cartuxa Pêra-Manca Branco is made with meticulous care. The handpicked grapes are carefully destemmed and gently crushed, maintaining the integrity of the fruit. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats and French oak barrels at a controlled temperature of 16°C, a process that enhances the wine's aromatic purity and complexity.

After fermentation, the wine matures on its lees for 12 months with regular battonage, which enriches the texture and structure. This is followed by an additional six months of bottle aging, allowing the flavors to integrate and develop further.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright citrus yellow.
• Aroma: Persistent, fine, and complex fruity aromas with notes of ripe apricot, pineapple, lime blossom, and lemongrass.
• Palate: Soft and dry, with layers of ripe fruit, creamy oak, and rolling acidity. The wine is beautifully balanced with a long and elegant finish.

Did you know?

The Pêra-Manca brand has roots dating back to 1488, when wines from this region were documented in correspondence with King João II of Portugal. Pêra-Manca wines were also aboard the ship of Pedro Álvares Cabral when he discovered Brazil in 1500. Revived by Cartuxa in 1990, the Pêra-Manca label now represents some of Portugal’s most revered wines.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled sea bass with lemon butter sauce: The citrusy and mineral notes of the wine enhance the delicate flavors of the fish.
• Prawns with garlic and olive oil: The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Roast chicken with creamy mushroom sauce: The creamy oak and fruity layers complement the savory depth of the dish.
• Aged goat cheese: The wine’s bright acidity and complex aromas balance the tangy, nutty flavors of aged goat cheese.

History of Cartuxa

The history of Cartuxa is closely tied to the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, founded by Vasco Maria Eugénio de Almeida. The foundation was created with a philanthropic mission to promote social, cultural, and educational development in the Alentejo region. Since taking ownership in 1963, the foundation has not only restored the estate but also ensured its role in producing some of Portugal’s finest wines.

Cartuxa gained international recognition when it revived the legendary Pêra-Manca wine label in 1990. This wine has become synonymous with excellence, especially the Pêra-Manca Tinto, often regarded as one of Portugal’s greatest wines. Historically, the Pêra-Manca wine was said to be on the ships that Pedro Álvares Cabral used when he discovered Brazil in 1500.

Region and Vineyards

Cartuxa’s vineyards are spread across 1,050 hectares of prime Alentejo terroir, with 650 hectares owned directly by the winery and 400 hectares leased long-term. The vineyards are situated in the Alentejo DOC – Évora, a region famous for its hot Mediterranean climate and granitic soils. These conditions are ideal for growing native Portuguese grape varieties like Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Antão Vaz. The combination of old vines and modern viticulture techniques allows Cartuxa to craft wines that reflect the full potential of the region.

Wine Range

Cartuxa offers a diverse range of wines, from their entry-level wines like Foral de Évora to their premium labels such as Cartuxa Colheita and the flagship Pêra-Manca. The winery produces both red and white wines, with an emphasis on indigenous grape varieties. The Pêra-Manca Tinto is particularly revered for its richness, complexity, and longevity, while the Pêra-Manca Branco showcases finesse and balance. The Cartuxa label, which includes both red and white wines, represents the heart of their production, known for their consistency and quality.

Did you know?

The Pêra-Manca wine was once aboard the ships of Pedro Álvares Cabral, the Portuguese explorer who discovered Brazil in 1500. This historical connection adds to the legendary status of Pêra-Manca today, making it one of the most sought-after wines in Portugal and among collectors worldwide.