Real Campanhia Velha, Quinta da Carvalhas Tinto, DOC Duoro, Portugal, 2019

Producer Profile

The iconic Real Companhia Velha is the oldest wine company in Portugal, with a history of over 260 years of port production.

Founded in 1756 by the Portuguese Prime Minister Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, Marquis of Pombal, the company (called Douro Wine Company back then) was formed to regulate the trade and production of all port wine. One of the company’s first official duties was to delineate the boundaries of the Douro wine region – a measure that essentially made it the world’s first regional appellation. Today, it represents some of the finest Quintas in the Douro. Prestigious and experienced, Real Companhia Velha has been able to preserve and honour traditional Portuguese winemaking while investing in the future with constant modernisation and experimentation in the vineyard.

Viticulture

The Quinta das Carvalhas Tinto is a reflection of the diversity of the terroir by featuring parcels at various locations of the Quinta. Vineyards at the very top of the mountain ensure freshness and elegance, while the ones located at lower altitudes provide structure and power.

Winemaking

For the Quinta das Carvalhas Tinto, fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats at controlled temperature. The wine then ages in French oak barriques for 12 months, gaining structure and complexity.

Tasting Note

A very fresh wine, with a beautiful ruby colour and aromas of red fruit harmoniously integrated with creamy vanilla notes, demonstrating notable aromatic intensity and complexity. Very balanced and round, resulting in a very pleasant and long lasting finish.

Food Matching

Veal, lamb and oily fish work really well.