Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve

Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve

Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve is a true expression of the prestigious Dão terroir. Crafted from Encruzado, one of the region’s most emblematic grape varieties, this wine reflects the elegance and freshness that define the varietal. With a limited production of only 3,625 bottles, this white wine stands out as a refined and characterful choice for lovers of sophisticated wines.

Winemaking & Aging
The harvest of Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve was carried out by hand, with a careful selection of the finest grapes. After picking, the grapes were transported in 22 kg boxes and fully destemmed. A gentle pressing followed, with the must transferred to stainless steel tanks, where alcoholic fermentation began on fine lees, without pumping over, at a controlled temperature of 15ºC. This process lasted for three weeks, with no malolactic fermentation, ensuring the preservation of the wine’s freshness and acidity. Aging for around one year in 500-litre oak barrels contributes to the wine’s complexity and structure.

Tasting Notes
Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve 2022 displays a bright lemon-yellow colour, highly appealing to the eye. On the nose, it reveals elegance and finesse, with aromas of linden, lemon verbena, orange blossom, and delicate hints of white-fleshed fruit. On the palate, the wine unveils vibrant freshness and lively acidity, seamlessly blending with subtle mineral delicacy. Its expressive character and harmonious balance are complemented by remarkable persistence, resulting in a long and refined finish. This wine embodies the harmony between freshness and complexity, hallmarks of the Encruzado grape variety.

Vineyard and Soil
The vineyards that give rise to Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve are located in Oliveira de Barreiros, in the municipality of Viseu, at an altitude of 430 metres. The vines range in age from 23 to 40 years, lending the wine unique depth and complexity. The predominant soil in the region is granite, offering an excellent balance of freshness and minerality in the grapes. The vine training system is vertical shoot positioning (single-plane), with unilateral/bilateral Guyot pruning, ensuring controlled yields and superior quality.

Climate and Production
The region’s Mediterranean climate favours grape ripening while helping to preserve their natural acidity. Production is limited to 6 tonnes per hectare, ensuring that each bottle reflects the attention to detail and superior quality that producer António Canto Moniz brings to every stage of the process. Viticulture is guided by integrated protection practices, ensuring both sustainability and vineyard quality.

Conclusion
Vinha Paz Encruzado White Reserve 2022 is a premium Dão wine that excellently expresses the character of the Encruzado grape. With meticulous winemaking and extended barrel aging, this wine reveals itself as elegant, fresh, and balanced, with a uniquely persistent finish. Ideal to pair with fish dishes, seafood, and Mediterranean cuisine, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a wine with great aging potential and sophistication.