Quinta da Romeira, `Prova Régia` Bucelas Arinto

Origin

Located 15 miles north-east of Lisbon, the historic Bucelas appellation is protected from the worst of the Atlantic weather systems by hills to the west and benefits from the moderating influence of the wide estuary of the Tagus River to the east. This favourable mesoclimate, combined with clay-limestone soils on rolling hills, provides the perfect growing environment for Portugal’s Arinto grape variety to ripen to perfection – accumulating great intensity of flavour whilst retaining a crisp natural acidity. With 75 hectares planted mainly with Arinto, Quinta da Romeira is purported to be the largest Arinto vineyard in the world.

Producer

Quinta da Romeira has been producing wines since 1703 and is one of the most prestigious estates in the Bucelas appellation. The wines rose to popularity in early 19th century Britain when the Duke of Wellington developed a taste for the estate’s wines during the Peninsula Wars and took them back to London as an offering to George IV. They soon gained a following, with celebrity fans including Charles Dickens and Lord Byron. The Quinta was bought by Sogrape in 2018. They have invested heavily in the estate, improving the viticulture and putting the talented António Braga (of Azevedo) in charge of winemaking.

Upon arrival at the Quinta da Romeira winery, the grapes were very carefully destemmed in order to preserve their character. They were then gently pressed in a pneumatic press and underwent a short pre-fermentation maceration on the skins to extract maximum aromatics. Fermentation took place in stainless- steel tanks at controlled temperatures of between 16 and 18°C. Following fermentation, the wine was kept on its fine lees for three months with regular bâtonnage to add texture and complexity.

Food Match

A wonderful match with seafood, but also asparagus tart and salads.

Details