2022 Quinta de Santiago ‘Assinatura de Familia’ Vinho Verde, Portugal

Producer: A family owned farm since 1899, the family would produce everything from meat & milk to olive oil, fruit & grapes that were sold to co-operatives. In  2009 Maria Zinha Santiago, at 86 years of age, transformed  the business into a family winery. Today Joana Santiago, former lawyer, runs the family winery, making terroir driven wines that focus on native varietals.

Place: Located in the Moncao & Melgaco sub-region of the Vinho Verde DOC, in the northernmost reaches of Portugal, along the Minho river.  An area full of lush, green vegetation, shaped by mountainous hillsides.

Cultivation: A commitment to sustainability & organic farming.

Varietal: 40% Arinto, 30% Trajadura, 30% Loureiro

Soil: Granite based, with clay and rolled pebbles

Winemaking: hand harvested, gentle press, natural yeast fermentation in stainless steel vats.

Tasting Notes: Zippy & Racy – Fizzy Mouthfeel – Salty Nectarine & Fresh Citrus