Prova Régia 2018 is a regional white wine, produced by Quinta da Romeira in the Bucellas subregion of Lisboa wine region, from 100% of Arinto grape variety.
Currently managed by the third generation of the founding family, the Sogrape Vinhos was founded in 1942 and now has more than 980 hectares of vineyards and 61 different grape varieties, in the main Portuguese wine regions like Vinho Verde, Douro, Dão, Bairrada, Bucelas and Alentejo. It is responsible for producing such renowned brands as Mateus Rosé, Gazela, Casa Ferreirinha, Offley and Sandeman, among others. The company exports its wines to over 70 countries.
Located 15 miles north-east of Lisbon, the historic Bucelas appellation is protected from the worst of the Atlantic weather systems by hills to the west and benefits from the moderating influence of the wide estuary of the Tagus river to the east. This favorable climate with clay-limestone soils provides the perfect growing environment for Portugal’s Arinto grape variety to ripen to perfection.
With 75 hectares planted mainly with Arinto, Quinta da Romeira is purported to be the largest Arinto vineyard in the world.
This Quinta has been producing wines since 1703 and is one of the most prestigious estates in the Bucelas subregion. Their wines rose to popularity in early 19th century Britain, with celebrity fans including Charles Dickens and Lord Byron. The Quinta was bought by Sogrape in 2019.
The 2018 vintage was characterized by high levels of rainfall and low temperatures at the beginning of the growing season, allowing the grapes to develop precise flavors and aromatics whilst retaining a refreshing acidity.
Prova Régia is bottled in the same harvest year so that the characteristics and aromas of the Arinto variety can benefit from short aging in the bottle.
Upon arrival at the Quinta da Romeira winery, the grapes were very carefully destemmed, then gently pressed and underwent a short pre-fermentation maceration on the skins to extract maximum aromatics. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks between 16-18 °C. Following fermentation, the wine was kept on its fine lees for three months with regular bâtonnage.
The wine presents intense, crystalline, yellowish-green color in the glass.
On the nose, nice aromas of ripe, creamy-sweet fleshy fruits like a fruity-vanilla pie. Tree fruits such as pear, peach and apple are nicely mixed with citrus notes. Light floral notes of jasmine in the background.
On the palate, it presents the freshness typical of the variety and its area of origin. Medium body, salty acidity and short finish accompanied by citrus freshness and light bitterness of lemon zest, in an elegant style.
Alcohol content: 12,5%
Several important critics (Decanter World Wine Awards, International Wine Challenge) have rated this Bucelas wine highly. This is the second most sought-after wine from the region.
Serve this drink between 9-11 °C. It does not need to be decanted.
Ideal to accompany all the variety of fish dishes, white meat or creamy risottos.
Enjoy!
No Comments Found