2022 Soalheiro Alvarinho Vinho Verde

You've probably heard of Albarino from NW Spain and Rias Baixas, located just north of the Mino river. Well, just south of that river lies a similar climate in Portugal that producers outstanding Alvarinho.

Do you love aromatic white wines but you're tired of Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Grigio? Let us introduce you to a special white wine from Portugal. 

Soalheiro is a renowned winery crafting exceptional Alvarinho wines from the heart of Portugal's Monção and Melgaço region, which is considered the best region for white wines in the whole country. This region also produces the famous Vinho Verde "green wine" that is intended to be drunk in its youth. Alvarinho is considered to the best white grape in the region and the top producers make this into a single varietal wine to showcase it's beauty. This sun-kissed area, with its unique blend of climate and soil, is the perfect stage for the Alvarinho grape to shine.

In the north of the country with heavy Atlantic influence, the region remains cool allowing white wine grapes to dominate the vineyards. The results of these grapes in such a cool maritime climate is energetic wines made with crystalline purity.  

The Cerdeira family's journey began in 1974 with a pioneering spirit that continues to shape Soalheiro today. Their dedication to sustainable farming practices and a deep respect for the land are evident in every bottle.

Soalheiro's philosophy centers on capturing the true essence of the Alvarinho grape and its surrounding terroir. In the cellar, gentle winemaking techniques are prioritized to preserve the fruit's purity and freshness. The focus is on highlighting the natural character of the Alvarinho grape, rather than overpowering it with excessive intervention.

While many Alvarinhos are best enjoyed young, Soalheiro Alvarinho also exhibits potential for aging. With careful cellar storage, the wine can develop additional complexity and depth, offering a more nuanced and evolved profile.

 100% Alvarinho. Displays a bright, lemon-yellow hue. Its aromatic profile is characterized by fresh and elegant notes, showcasing the inherent complexity of the Alvarinho variety. The palate is a vibrant interplay of intense tropical and mineral flavors, expertly balanced by a crisp acidity and moderate alcohol content.

Peachy aromas with notes of orange juicy and tangerine peel, hints of flowers and tropical tones. Structured and lingering.~94 Decanter World Wine Awards

João Anintónio Cerdeira planted a few vines of Alvarinho grapes in 1974. He called this tiny vineyard ’Soalheiro’, which means sunny. In 1982 he converted his garage into a place to make wine from these grapes. Today, his son, António Luís Cerdeira is the winemaker. Pale yellow color, infused with aromas and flavors of Meyer lemon and grapefruit, plus peach laced with dusty mineral notes. The citrusy fruit is lean and crisp in the mouth. Alvarinho is the Portuguese name for the Albariño grape. Vinho Verde is the largest wine region in Portugal. Its northern border is the Minho River dividing Vinho Verde from the Rias Baixas region of Spain and home of Albariño. Its southern border is the Douro River. On the western side is a long coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, which has a greater effect on the region's weather conditions. Vinho Verde means “green wine,” and green also describes the region. It is divided into nine subregions. The soil is mainly granite, some places with shist, but it is mainly granite, which reinforces the impression of acidity and freshness. ~93 Wine Review Online

~93 Wine & Spirits Magazine

A lithe, vibrant offering, with a mouthwatering mix of nectarine, papaya and grated ginger notes, plus floral accents of elderflower and verbena. Lightly chalky in texture, which lends a bit of weight to the otherwise light-bodied frame, while a racy streak of salinity crackles on the finish. Drink now. 25,000 cases made, 400 cases imported. ~90 Wine Spectator

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