Soalheiro Alvarinho Reserve 2022 Vinho Verde White 75cl

Reserva had its origins in an experiment when, in 1995, Soalheiro was one of the first to try the combination of Alvarinho and French oak. After a lot of experimentation, in 2006 we developed the style of Reserva that still exists today.

This wine reveals Alvarinho in all its essence, without the influence of the wood used masking the characteristics of this variety. The barrel nuances are very well integrated, complementing the aromatic profile of Alvarinho while adding a new dimension of structure and complexity.

Terroir: The Alvarinho grapes for Soalheiro Reserva come from vineyards in the valley, namely from vines led upwards, allowing for greater sun exposure. This gives the wine less aromatic intensity, but more tannins and structure. This is the ideal Alvarinho profile for barrel fermentation, where the complexity associated with aging is more important than the aromatic intensity.

Vinification: The grapes are hand-picked. After pressing, the must is clarified and then fermentation is carried out at a controlled temperature. Fermentation and aging take place in French oak barrels with medium toast and very fine grain.

Of the batch of barrels, 25% are new, the remainder being used, and some were even used in the first experiments at Soalheiro in 1995. The wine is aged for 12 months in oak barrels in contact with the fine lees and bâtonnage to give it texture and complexity. Thus, we preserve the entire aromatic identity of Alvarinho, adding a new dimension of volume in the mouth.