Wine Description & Tasting Notes
Located in the Alijó Valley, Quinta de Cottas is a 10 hectare property that enjoys the excellent conditions for growing and producing Douro and Port wines. In 2006, Isabel and Pedro Carmo were enchanted to a vineyard that once belonged to a large and important Quinta (Estate). Their great love for wine and the Douro Valley made it impossible for them not to take the opportunity to produce their own wines in this unique region, giving rise to this wine project.
They quickly started the renovation of the property, recovering the existing old vineyard and planting new vines on the remaining vacant plots. From the beginning they defined that the Quinta de Cottas approach would be to capture the essence of the Douro’s main grape varieties, producing high quality wines with a distinct personality that expressed their unique terroir.
Using White Varieties from their higher altitude vineyards of between 450 – 550m to acheive freshness, balance and minerality.
Grape Varieties: Arinto, Viosinho & Gouveio
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: This wine greets the senses with aromatic freshness, featuring vibrant tropical fruit notes complemented by subtle hints of citrus and wet slate.
-
Palate: On the palate, it is fresh and vibrant, offering a generous body that is both rich and elegantly balanced. Flavors of spiced tropical fruits dominate, with a delicate floral hint on the finish.
Food Pairing Recommendations
The versatility of Quinta de Cottas Douro Branco makes it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes:
-
Seafood: Pairs beautifully with shellfish, grilled fish, and sushi, enhancing the natural flavors of the sea.
-
Poultry: Complements roasted or grilled chicken and turkey, especially when prepared with herbs and light sauces.
-
Appetizers and Snacks: Ideal with light appetizers, cured meats, and soft cheeses, making it a great choice for social gatherings.
Douro Wine Region History and Information
The Douro Valley, located in northeastern Portugal, is one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed wine regions. Viticulture in the area dates back over 2,000 years, with evidence of winemaking since Roman times. In 1756, the Douro was established as the world’s first demarcated and regulated wine region, primarily known for its production of Port wine. The landscape is characterized by steep, terraced vineyards along the Douro River, where the combination of schist soils and a unique microclimate contributes to the cultivation of high-quality grapes. Today, the Douro Valley is celebrated not only for its fortified wines but also for its exceptional still red and white wines, showcasing the diversity and richness of Portuguese viticulture.
