Quinta do Ameal Loureiro, Vinho Verde, Portugal

Citrus and orange blossom lead the aromatic profile of 2024 Quinta do Ameal Loureiro, opening into a fresh, vibrant palate with lively acidity, good volume and a persistent, refreshing finish. Made entirely from Loureiro grown in the grape's historic home, the wine is fermented in stainless steel and spends approximately seven months on its fine lees, building texture while preserving the variety's bright floral and citrus character. Winemakers Mafalda Magalhães and José Luis Moreira da Silva shape the wine as a pure expression of Loureiro and its capacity for both immediate freshness and graceful evolution.

Product Details:

• Winemakers: Mafalda Magalhães and José Luis Moreira da Silva
• Grape Variety: 100% Loureiro
• Harvest: Manual
• Pressing: Pneumatic pressing of whole bunches
• Must Preparation: Cold settling for 48 hours
• Fermentation: Stainless steel vats at 16-18°C for 12-15 days
• Aging: Approximately 7 months in stainless steel on fine lees
• Bottling: April 2025
• Alcohol: 12%
• Total Acidity: 5.9 g/L
• pH: 3.27
• Reducing Sugar: 1.5 g/L

Sensory Description:

Yellow with green highlights, the wine is fresh, light and exuberant on the nose, led by citrus fruit and orange blossom. The palate is lively and vibrant, balancing refreshing acidity with good body and the subtle textural breadth developed through extended contact with the fine lees. Citrus and floral tones remain clear and energetic through a persistent, refreshing finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Quinta do Ameal is a historic estate closely associated with the modern revival of Loureiro as a grape capable of producing distinctive, age-worthy white wines. The property was developed from the 1990s under Pedro Araújo and his family, who focused the project on Loureiro and helped establish a more ambitious expression of the variety. Esporão acquired Quinta do Ameal in 2019, bringing the estate into its Portuguese wine portfolio while continuing its focus on wines with identity and a strong sense of place. Today, winemakers Mafalda Magalhães and José Luis Moreira da Silva carry that work forward, using restrained cellar techniques to emphasize Loureiro's natural citrus, floral freshness and capacity for evolution.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at approximately 8-10°C in a medium-sized white wine glass to emphasize its citrus and orange blossom aromatics while allowing its lees-derived texture to emerge. Its freshness and vibrant acidity make it a natural partner for oysters, shellfish, grilled or simply prepared fish, ceviche, fresh cheeses and vegetable dishes, as well as lighter preparations featuring citrus and fresh herbs.