Carlos Lucas Vinhos, Vinha Santa Maria Tinto Reserva Single Vineyard, DOC Dão , Portugal, 2020

Producer Profile

Carlos Lucas is the man behind a portfolio of quality wines from across Portugal, including the Douro, and the region closest to his heart, the Dão.

A pioneer of modern-style Portuguese wines and a talented winemaker with nearly 30 years of experience, he has replanted the vineyards at Quinta do Ribeiro Santo where his Dão wines are created from the area’s poor granite soils. His commitment to the region was affirmed when he acquired Quinta de Santa Maria, in Cabanas de Viriato, a ten-hectare plot of old vines planted with Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alfrochiero and Jaen. Vineyards are managed using an integrated crop management system, with grapes harvested by hand into small boxes and careful selection in the vineyard, in order to produce a modern expression of authentic Portuguese varieties. His other projects take him across the country, and with the latest addition, ‘A River Runs Through It’ from the Douro we can see his immeasurable talent on display once again.

Viticulture

The Vinha Santa Maria vineyard sits on granitic soil with large rocky outcrops in the DOC Dão at an altitude of between 400-600m. Temperature is influenced by the rivers Dão and Mondego, although in general the site has hot and dry summers, and cold winters.

Winemaking

Harvested by hand there is a total destemming of the bunches. Maceration for 24 hours at low temperatures before the alcoholic fermentation is made in stainless steel vats. Soft remontage to extract colour and aroma. Aged in French oak barrels of 225L for 12 months.

Oak Ageing

Time: 12 Months
Type: 225 Litre French Oak
% wine oaked: 100
% new oak: None

Tasting Note

This native varietal blend is a medium ruby colour, with black fruits exuding on the nose combined with black pepper. A fresh and elegant wine, with structure despite its youthfulness, and a persistent finish. Wonderful balance between the oak barrel influence and acidity.

Food Matching

Pairs perfectly with roasted meat dishes, dried nuts, mushroom and soft cheeses.