Cortinha Velha

Cortinha Velha is one of the most exciting estates in Monção and Melgaço. Led by Sara Covas, it combines deep respect for the region's traditions with a rigorous, contemporary approach, producing wines of remarkable precision and identity.

Each wine is crafted through meticulous viticulture and minimal intervention in the cellar, with the aim of expressing the elegance, freshness, and ageing potential of Alvarinho. Production is limited, reflecting an uncompromising commitment to quality.

Wine

The Cortinha Velha Alvarinho Reserva 2021 Magnum is the Covas family's most ambitious interpretation of the Alvarinho grape. Sourced from the granite soils of Monção and Melgaço and produced in an extremely limited edition, it combines the purity of the fruit with an extended ageing process.

After complete destemming and a short pre-fermentative skin maceration at low temperature, the must is obtained through very gentle vertical pressing and fermented exclusively in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged for 18 months in stainless steel, followed by an additional 24 months in bottle before release, gaining greater depth, complexity, and ageing potential.

It displays an elegant golden hue. The nose reveals aromas of nectarine, delicate citrus notes, and honey. The palate is beautifully balanced between richness and tension, with pronounced minerality, vibrant acidity, and a remarkably long, persistent finish.

Produced in only 300 Magnum bottles (1.5 L), this is a rare Alvarinho, crafted to evolve gracefully over many years in bottle.

Technical Information

Region: Monção e Melgaço, Vinho Verde

Country: Portugal

Grape Variety: 100% Alvarinho

Soil: Granite

Harvest: Hand-picked (2 September 2021)

Vinification

• Complete destemming
• Short pre-fermentative skin maceration at low temperature
• Very gentle vertical pressing
• Natural static settling for 24 hours at 12°C
• Fermentation exclusively in stainless steel tanks

Ageing

• 18 months in stainless steel tanks
• 24 months in bottle before release

Alcohol: 12.5%

pH: 3.28

Total Acidity: 6.5 g/L

Residual Sugar: <1.5 g/L

Production: 300 Magnum bottles (1.5 L)

Food Pairing

• Grilled premium fish
• Shellfish
• Confit salt cod
• Roast poultry
• Soft-ripened cheeses