Morgado do Quintão Branco Amphora 2023

The Algarve’s most exciting and authentic wines and the largest collection of old organically grown vines in the region are available at this family farm founded in early 1810 by the 1st Count of Silves. Joana Maçanita and the 4th generation of the family, represented by Filipe Caldas de Vasconcellos, work exclusively with indigenous grape varieties and yeasts, and use ancestral or minimal intervention methods to rediscover the Algarve’s potential. At another historic 12th century farm in Tomar, the family, advised by João Nunes, is just as passionate about recreating the wines created by the Marquise of Tomar in the 19th century.

Wine:

An ancient Algarve white wine, pure and vibrant, fermented in Portuguese clay jars.

Region and Caste

• Region: Algarve (Algarve Regional Wine)

• Caste: 100% Crato Branco (also known as Síria in other regions)

• Viticulture: Manual, with minimal intervention

• Volume Produced: 1,466 bottles (750 ml)

Winemaking

Prepared through direct pressing, without adding sulfites until the end of fermentation. Spontaneous fermentation occurs in large Portuguese clay amphorae, 140 years old, where the wine remains in contact with its lees for 6 months, in a deeply traditional and authentic interpretation.

• Spontaneous fermentation in old clay jars

• No SO₂ until the end of fermentation

• Aged for 6 months with lees in amphora

Tasting Notes

Color shiny straw. On the nose, notes of white fruit, dry herb and a touch of wet clay which gives authenticity. In the mouth, it shows an electric freshness and intense salinity, with a dry and crisp finish. A pure and expressive wine, with a unique character.

Technical Data

• Alcohol content: 12.5%

• Residual sugar: 0.6 g/L

• Winemaker: Joana Maçanita

• Serving temperature: 8–10 ºC

Harmonizations

Ideal to accompany oysters from Ria Formosa, natural seafood, ceviches, or vegetarian dishes with roasted vegetables and earthy flavors.