Conditions

2015 was characterized by being an atypical year, with a cold and dry winter and Spring and Summer that were unusually hot and dry. Particularly relevant was the lack of rain throughout the greatest part of the vegetative cycle, at high temperatures between June and July. The climate provoked an anticipated vegetative cycle, around 1 to 2 weeks earlier than average. Oidium and Mildium did not have any impact on the quality and quantity produced. In comparison to the last decade, 2015 was the healthiest of all years. In the older vineyards we did not have hydric stress due to the capacity of older vines to find water. In the new vines, water was scarce, but there was no significant fall in production. Ripening and maturation was earlier this year. Harvest began on the 26th of August with our white grapes. Picking happened in the most perfect weather and grape conditions.

Grape Origins

To produce our VZ Douro White, we need to find grapes that grow at over 600 meters altitude, where they find freshness and a more moderate climate to produce fresh, crisp wines. A blend of Viosinho, Rabigato, Codega and Gouveio, with all the grape varieties mixed in the vineyards, which are located, in two plots with an average age between 50 and 80 years old, in the Murça district.

Vinification and ageing

All grapes are de-storked before being slightly crushed by a pneumatic press and the resulting must decanted for 24 hours at 10° Celsius in 2,500 litre stainless steel vats. The must is then racked into new 225 litres French oak barrels, where it will ferment for 25+ days at controlled temperatures between 10° and 14° Celsius. The wine was aged in the same barriques for another 9 months, with battonage.

Analysis
Alcohol: 12,2% vol
Total acidity: 5,90 g/l
Volatile acidity: 0,3 g/l
pH: 3,19
Total SO2: 109,0 mg/l
Total sugars: 0,8 g/l 

More Quinta Vale D. Maria wines