Rufo was born during an after-dinner talk with some friends, while elaborating about how to better our agricultural practices to improve the environment and increase the Alectoris rufa’s population in Vale D. Maria (Alectoris rufa being the scientific name for the red-legged partridge). We agreed that the word Rufo, meaning red in Latin, would be a good name for a Douro red wine. But Rufo in Portuguese also means the sound of a drum, so when designing the new label, the drum quickly became the choice for the symbol of the new Rufo do Vale D. Maria, our entry level wine, and the one that announces and sets the beginning, the rhythm for our range of Vale D. Maria wines.

With a average concentration of sugars and good acidity levels in the grapes in 2013, Rufo do Vale D. Maria 2013 is an elegant and very fresh wine, with strong aromatic and fruity flavors and a very good freshness in its finish. Great balance and acidity, intense and velvety, with finesse and elegance.

Grape Origins

A blend of are Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional grape varieties from 5 year old to 35 year old vineyards situated in the area of Loureiro (Baixo Corgo), rio Pinhão valley and rio Torto valley (Cima Corgo).

Vinification and ageing

At Quinta Vale D. Maria, in stainless steel for 7 to 12 days at temperatures between 22° and 27° Celsius. Ageing in a mix of two, three and four year old French oak barriques for 12 months. Another 15 months in stainless steel.

Bottling:

November 2015 and January 2016. Some 44.000 bottles of 75cl and 2.000 half-bottles of 37,5cl were produced.

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