Quinta de Foz de Arouce Branco, a rare gem nestled in Portugal's viticultural landscape, showcases the visionary collaboration between the esteemed oenologist João Portugal Ramos and this historic vineyard. Planted primarily with Baga, complemented by various traditional Portuguese varieties, this estate, unique in a 50-mile radius, produces a limited 1,500 bottles of its exquisite white annually. Ramos, a renowned figure in Portuguese winemaking, married into the family, elevating Foz de Arouce's wines to the nation's pinnacle. The 5-acre vineyard, rooted in schist soil, at 660-825 feet elevation, yields the exceptional Cerceal varietal. With meticulous craftsmanship, the wine undergoes fermentation and aging in French oak barrels, resulting in a distinguished expression that reflects the terroir's essence. Since its inaugural vintage in 1987, this wine stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and innovation inspired by the rich winemaking history of Quinta de Foz de Arouce.
NOTES FROM VINOVOSS SOMMELIER
Quinta de Foz de Arouce Branco is a white wine that hails from the Beiras region.This wine is known for its elegant and complex character, offering a delightful sensory experience to the discerning palate.
On the nose, Quinta de Foz de Arouce Branco exhibits enticing aromas of ripe citrus fruits, such as lemon and grapefruit, accompanied by delicate floral notes. These aromatics create a refreshing and inviting bouquet that sets the stage for the tasting experience.
When sipping this wine, one can expect a well-balanced and harmonious flavor profile. The palate is greeted with a vibrant acidity that brings a lively freshness to the wine. The citrus notes detected on the nose translate into a zesty and invigorating taste, complemented by hints of tropical fruits and a subtle minerality. The overall mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, leaving a lingering finish that is both satisfying and memorable.
Quinta de Foz de Arouce Branco is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its crisp acidity makes it an excellent companion to seafood, particularly grilled fish or shellfish. It also complements light poultry dishes and fresh salads, enhancing their flavors and providing a delightful contrast.
In terms of aging potential, Quinta de Foz de Arouce Branco is best enjoyed in its youth to fully appreciate its vibrant and lively characteristics. However, it can also develop further complexity and depth with a few years of bottle aging, allowing the flavors to evolve and integrate.
Beiras is a Portuguese wine region located in the central part of the country, in the Beiras region.
Beiras has a long history of winemaking, dating back to the Roman Empire. The region was known for its high-quality wines, and it was even mentioned in the writings of the Roman poet Virgil. In the Middle Ages, the region was known for its fortified wines, which were popular throughout Europe. The Beiras DOC came into force in 2005 with the merging of three IPR designations.