Quinta das Carvalhas is made up of several small plots, arranged like a mosaic, with each expressing the estate's terroir with its own character and identity. Within these plots, we find the essential components for the complexity and uniqueness of the wines that make up the estate's range.
Each plot is vinified individually, whether it is a blend of native grape varieties or a single-varietal plot. Sometimes, we are surprised by the exceptional character of a specific harvest, where the wine stands out and distinguishes itself from the estate’s classic blends. Vinha do Eirol is one of those cases.
Located in a remote area of the estate, at around 360 meters of altitude, with a westward exposure, this very old vineyard, planted on traditional terraced slopes supported by centuries-old stone walls, reflects a very fine and wild side of the Douro. It produces an elegant wine, yet one of great complexity and aromatic expression.
A wine that stands out from the usual Douro wines with its garnet colour and lower extraction. On the nose, it is very fresh and expressive, with hints of red fruits and citrus, harmoniously combined with vegetal, herbal and mineral notes. On the palate, it is broad and highly seductive, with fresh and original flavors, suggesting nuances of forest and wild berries, finishing with great intensity and persistence.
After a precise manual harvest, the grapes are transported to the winery in 20 kg crates. Following a meticulous manual sorting, the bunches are placed into a small French oak vat, where only 30% of the bunches are destemmed and crushed. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at 24-26°C, with light foot treading and pump-overs carried out by hand in order to ensure good yet careful extraction. After fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged in used French oak barrels and casks.
Located to the west at an altitude of approximately 380 meters in Quinta das Carvalhas, Vinha do Eirol is a plot of very old vines. As is typical in century-old vineyards, we are presented with a remarkable diversity of native grape varieties, which gives this wine its immense complexity and uniqueness.
Plot: Eirol
Grape Variety: Blend of Grape Varieties
Rootstock: Rupestris du Lot
Total Area: 1.2 hectares
Year of Planting: 1920s
System: Traditional Vineyard - Short Pruning
Altitude: 310m to 350m
Exposure: West
