Monday, June 2, 2025

The unexpected wines of monção and melgaço

Masterclass by Dirceu Vianna Jr MW. 1821 hectares of vines in these two regions, planted at 83% Alvarinho, only recently appreciated low yield small bunches, scorned in the past. Growers were sent into exile in late XVIII century if caught growing it!

Here are my tasting notes.


1. Anselmo Mendes

Tempo 2019

Loureiro 100%

Fresh, slight pleasant savory oxydation. 

Fermented on skins, good structure.

Rrp £55

Score 91


2. Adega de Monção

Deu la Deu premium 2020

Alvarinho 100%

Delicate acidity, good length. Almonds. 

Rrp £25

Score 90


3.Quinta de Paços

Casa do capitão Mor

Alvarinho sobre lias 2020 

Herbal aromas, cut grass, powerful structure for a white no doubt because of the lees. Slight "positive" oxydation. 

Very Long! 

Rrp €32 in Portugal 

Score 93


4. Soalheiro 

Revirado 2022 

Alvarinho 100%

Revirado means turned over lots of times, batonage. 

Balanced, slight bitterness, good length. 

Rrp €45 in Portugal 

Score 89


5. Valados de Melgaço

Alvarinho grande, reserva 5th anniversary 2016

Limited edition only 1910 bottles. Very light press. Wood then tank with lees. 

Herbal intensity, glycerin roundness, balance and length. A majestic perfectly aged alvarinho. 

Rrp €65 euros in Portugal 

Score 95


6. Quinta de Santiago 

Sou 2020

Alvarelhão 100%

Portuguese answer to Pinot noir 

Light, easy, balanced.

Rrp €38 in Portugal 

Score 86

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