Location: Refóios do Lima, Ponte Lima, Minho
Website address: http://www.quintadoameal.com/
Pedro Araújo inherited this picturesque vineyard, near Ponte de Lima, from his Dad in 1999; Straight away he began converting vineyard practices to the Biodynamic way. This isn’t easy in the rainy and warm Minho, but the results are stunning. The vines are less productive than in conventionally managed vineyards giving wines that have elegance and intensity in equal measure He makes two whites from the classic Loureiro grape.
Quinta do Ameal is already recognised as one of the region's great success stories. Gold Medal and Trophy 2000 and 2001 - C.V.R.V.V. (Vinho Verde Regional Viticulture Committee); Gold Medal 2000 Label Competition - C.V.R.V.V.; Best Buy Award 2000 and 2001 - "Revista de Vinhos"; 2000 and 2001 Best in the Region - "Revista de Vinhos". It is also available at the finest restaurants and wine merchants in the country and currently exports to countries including Belgium, Holland, USA, Canada, Spain, England, Norway, Austria, Germany and Bordeaux in France.
The Ameal wines where also been recognised by important sectors of the international wine press, including Jancis Robinson (Wine of the week ), Steven Spurrier( Decanter-Best Old World White), Hugh Johnson, Guido Francque, Tom Marthinsen, Matthew Jukes, Paula Bosch,Wine&Spirits, Harpers, Washington Post, Finantial Times, Revue des Vins, among others.
The Ameal vineyards are referred to in the annals of the Refóios do Lima convent, which were written some time before 1710. The ancient Quinta do Ameal is situated in one of the oldest parishes in Portugal, establisded even before the country itself (1143). Quinta do Ameal wine is produced in this sub-region of Lima, where the Loureiro grape variety is at its most aromatic and tasty. The wine is characterised by its freshness and youth, possessing a floral and fruity aroma.
The whole production process is closely controlled and monitored with the different phases taking place under the watchful eye of experts who are responsible for areas including oenology and viticulture. There is a meticulous selection of grapes, with fermentation at controlled temperatures, automatic rinsing, bottling and labelling and a constant use of the best possible methods or production equipment (e.g. pumps for whole grapes and a pneumatic press).
Quinta do Ameal boasts a rich environmental heritage and, in addition to its vines, it is notable for its stunning woodland, which contains oak-trees, walnut-trees and centuries-old stone pines, forming an area of outstanding natural beauty next to the banks of the river Lima. It is considered to be property with exceptional agricultural and ecological potential, as well as an area of historical significance. Today, it is recognised as one of the producers of Portuguese Loureiro varietal wines that is most involved in and responsible for the development of this grape variety.
For older vintage information please contact us or consult the producer’s website
Loureiro
Current Vintage: 2008
The finest expression of this variety in the whole Minho. The 2008 combines structure and poise, with sensational definition on the palate. Proof that great wines do not need high alcohol (this is only 11.5abv)! 100% unoaked and tank fermented.
