Quinta do Crasto Superior White 2022

Region and Vineyards

Quinta do Crasto is located in the prestigious Douro appellation, known for its stunning landscapes and exceptional wines. The vineyard plots vary in aspect and altitude, ranging from 600 meters with east to north orientations. This diversity in terroir allowed for a balance in production levels, with higher altitude areas faring better in terms of yield. The vineyards are structured with vertical rows and terraces (patamares), allowing for optimal sun exposure and air circulation.

Winemaking

The Quinta do Crasto Superior White is crafted from a blend of 60% Viosinho and 40% Verdelho. The grapes, sourced from the Douro Superior sub-region, are carefully transported to the winery in 22kg plastic boxes and rigorously inspected upon arrival. They are then destemmed and pressed, with the juice being transferred to stainless steel tanks for a 48-hour decanting period at 8ºC. The initial alcoholic fermentation takes place in these tanks before the wine is moved to French oak barrels, where fermentation continues for 45 days at 14ºC.

The wine is aged for 6 months in French oak barrels, with 50% new barrels and 50% used barrels. A portion of these barrels (15%) have acacia heads to add complexity. The barrels are equipped with individual rollers to facilitate lees stirring without introducing oxygen, enhancing the wine's texture and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale lemon.
• Aroma: Intense and fresh, with prominent notes of citrus fruit and a vibrant minerality.
• Palate: Evolves charmingly in the mouth, offering excellent volume and texture. This is a food-friendly wine with a captivating and long, lingering finish.

Did you know?

The vines used for Quinta do Crasto Superior White are 26 years old, which helps contribute to the wine's complexity and refined character.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Seafood: The fresh citrus notes and vibrant minerality of the wine complement the delicate flavors of grilled seafood.
• Roast Chicken with Herbs: The wine's excellent volume and texture pair well with the savory and aromatic qualities of roast chicken.
• Goat Cheese Salad: The wine's acidity and minerality balance the richness of goat cheese, making it a perfect match for a fresh salad.
• Sushi: The elegant texture and fresh finish of the wine enhance the delicate flavors of sushi.

Located on the right bank of the Douro River, between the towns of Régua and Pinhão, Quinta do Crasto is a property of 130 hectares, 70 of which are planted with vines.

Nestled on a privileged location in the Douro Demarcated Region, Quinta do Crasto has belonged to the family of Leonor and Jorge Roquette for over a century and like all the great properties of the Douro it dates back to ancient times - the name "Crasto" is derived from the Latin word "castrum", which means "Roman fort".

The large investments made over the past few years have seen considerable advancements in the reorganisation of the vineyards and the implementation of modern equipment in the winery. This work has resulted in a great selection of top-quality wines, including blended wines (Crasto, Crasto Superior and Quinta do Crasto Reserva Old Vines), single varietal wines (Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional), single vineyard wines (Vinha da Ponte and Vinha Maria Teresa), and special category of Port wines (Finest Reserve, LBV and Vintage).

Despite the use of state-of-the-art winemaking technology, Quinta do Crasto maintains its traditional foot treading method, carried out in large granite tanks called "lagares".

The completion of this phase of investment and the passion for making exceptional wines has contributed to Quinta de Crasto´s growing national and international reputation.