Hugo Mendes Castelao Vinho Regional Lisboa, Portugal

Wild red berries, cranberry, fresh herbs, and subtle spice rise from the glass with remarkable purity and freshness. 2023 Hugo Mendes Castelão was created to showcase the authentic character of one of Lisboa's signature native grape varieties through traditional, low-intervention winemaking that emphasizes fruit, finesse, and sense of place. It reflects Hugo Mendes' commitment to allowing Portugal's indigenous grapes to speak with clarity and individuality.

Product Details:

• Winemaker/ Owner: Hugo Mendes
• Grapes: 100% Castelão
• Farming: Organically grown, low-intervention viticulture
• Harvest Method: Hand harvested
• Fermentation: Total destemming, native yeast fermentation in closed vats with frequent pumpovers
• Aging: 20% matured for 6 months in oak
• Filtration: Minimal intervention winemaking
• ABV: 12.5%

Sensory Description:

The nose opens with fragrant wild red berries, cranberry, and crushed stone, complemented by delicate floral notes, fresh herbs, and hints of black pepper. The palate is light-bodied yet intensely expressive, showing vibrant red fruit carried by bright acidity and exceptionally fine, chalky tannins. A subtle mineral thread and savory herbal edge add complexity, while the finish remains long, silky, and remarkably fresh, capturing the purity and elegance of Castelão in a restrained, food-friendly style.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: Jancis Robinson 17.5 Points, 2024

Winemaker’s Background:

Originally trained as a biomedical engineer, Hugo Mendes entered the wine industry in 2004 before spending more than a decade making wine and consulting for producers across Portugal. Seeking complete creative freedom, he established his own winery in 2016 to explore the full potential of Portugal's native grape varieties through thoughtful, low-intervention winemaking. His philosophy centers on expressing vineyard origin and varietal identity with minimal cellar manipulation, producing wines that are honest reflections of place, vintage, and grape.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees Celsius in a Burgundy-style glass to emphasize the wine's lifted aromatics and vibrant freshness. Pair with grilled pork, roast chicken, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, Mediterranean cuisine, tuna, or herb-roasted vegetables.