Quinta da Mariposa Tinto, Dão, Portugal, 2020

Producer Profile

Quinta da Mariposa is a ‘distinctly Dão’ producer, making wines that are characteristic of the region from only native varieties; including Encruzado, Jaen and Tinta Roriz.

After working with some of the best wineries of the Dão region, oenologist Lúcia Freitas returned to her family estate in Terras de Senhorim to establish Quinta da Mariposa – a project that harmonizes her respect for tradition and her dream of making wines of extraordinary character from the region she knows so well. Together with her husband Filipe, plans are currently underway to convert the town’s local nightclub into a winery, serendipitously this is where the couple danced together when they were young.

Viticulture

Quinta da Mariposa practice sustainable agriculture so they can craft wine whilst also preserving the wine culture for future generations. They only use native varieties found in the Dão region, ensuring their crop is perfectly suited to the soil and the climate. Their estate is modest and everything is done by hand.

Winemaking

Produced with respect for the natural characteristics of the grapes, intervening as little as possible to obtain quality wine that are true to their origins and terroir. The grapes were harvested manualy into 20kg boxes. After crushing with full destemming, the grapes go to into a small open stainless steel vat, were they macerate under low temperature for 48 hours. The fermentation is slow and the temperature controlled.

Oak Ageing

No oak ageing

Tasting Note

A vibrant ruby coloured wine, with highlights of wild berry notes, black pepper and wild flowers. The palate has a nice acidity combined with round tannins and a long finish.

Food Matching

Wild mushrooms, roasted meats and meat based pasta dishes.