Quinta das Maias Branco 2020

Quinta das Maias Branco, Dao, Portugal, 2020

Grapes: A blend of Malvasia Fina, Encruzado, Gouveio and Cercial, organic, sandy granite soil, high altitude vineyard (600+ m.a.s.l.), unoaked

Citric, clear and brilliant, with floral notes of lime and lemon. On the palate it is fresh, elegant and structured, in the classic line of Dão white wines. A very dry wine, almost unctuous in texture, this has flavour and plenty of good acidity. It's quite beautiful as a lighter-styled fresh white.

The property, Quinta das Maias, situated in the foothills of the Serra de Estrela (Star Mountain), was first established in 1893 and is now a registered organic producer.

Critic's Tasting Note:

"Organically certified wine. Mainly Malvasia Fina (aka Bual) and Encruzado. Unoaked.
Not very open at first but blossomed on the day after opening – yellow plum and ripe stone fruit and a touch of that lovely cedary aroma I usually associate with Encruzado, plus a light and sweetly floral note. Lots going on here. A great combination of rich, creamy but certainly lively fruit and intense freshness with a hint of spice on the finish and firm acid backbone clothed in scent on the palate when it opens up. Textured and long. Finely balanced, with a strong sense of place rather than variety and should age really well in bottle. Chewy at the very end with plenty of tension and a long finish."

16.5/20 points, Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com, March 2022

Food Match: Seafood, salads, and white meat. Try some green olive chicken croquettes.