About the Icons
A Monthly Wine Club Selection
A family-owned estate located just north of the Portuguese capital of Lisbon; Quinta do Pinto was established in 2003 by fith-generation agriculturist Antonio Cardoso Pinto. Nestled between the Montejunto Mountains and the Tagus River, Antonio fell in love with the tranquility of this property on his first visit and believed in its untapped viticultural potential. Today, he works alongside his children, Rita, Ana, and Francisco to produce some of the finest wines in the Alenquer-Lisbon region. In fact, the wines produced on this estate have always been held in high esteem. Two centuries ago, the wines were already heralded as being exceptional, and worth more Pintos (the old gold coin currency of the region) than any other local wines! Coincidentally, Pinto is the surname of the current owners.
Quinta do Pinto employs sustainable vineyard practices. The 300-acre estate has 160 acres under vine, and is planted to twenty-seven different native and international grape varietals—the oldest of which are almost 50 years old. The vineyards surround the 17th century manor house and a traditional Portuguese wine cellar. The wines are produced using non-interventionist winemaking techniques, including using indigenous yeasts, and fermenting the wines in concrete tanks.
A blend of 20% Fernão Pires, 20% Viosinho, 20% Chardonnay, 11% Arinto, 18% Roussanne and 11% Chenin Blanc. Each varietal was vinified separately. The grapes were harvested and then carefully hand-sorted, completely destemmed and gently pressed. The must was clarified by natural settling in refrigerated vats over three days, with bâtonnage in the first 24 hours. Fermentation was carried out in temperature-controlled cement tanks—except for the Roussanne—which was fermented and aged in a combination of new and second oak barrels with frequent bâtonnage.
Bright yellow with golden highlights. Enticing aromas of citrus fruit mingled with chalky mineral notes. The palate is bright and fresh with flavors of lemon curd, yellow peach and a subtle floral note. Beautifully balanced with a lively acidity and a long and persistent finish. 580 cases produced.