Leme Loureiro Alvarinho, Vinho Verde

A beautifully aromatic Vinho Verde with vibrant citrus, stone fruits and orange blossom underpinned by a delicious mineral note leading to a long, lively finish. 

Producer Note

Carlos Moreira, agronomist, grape-grower and winemaker from the Vinho Verde region, established Enopartner in 2006, with the aim of showcasing the emblematic grape varieties of the region and Portugal. Working alongside experienced winemaker Jorge Pinto, they carefully select the highest quality grapes to create fresh, fruit-driven wines with elegant minerality which offer excellent value for money. ‘Leme’ translates as ‘helm’ or ‘rudder’ and this nautical themed and vibrant duo of wines showcase Vinho Verde at its best. 

Vineyard

The Loureiro grapes come from the Cávado sub-region, in the heart of the Vinho Verde DOC, where the variety thrives in a mesoclimate of mild temperatures and high rainfall. The vines are planted on slopes, with a double-cordon training system. The name Loureiro means ‘laurel’ and refers to the distinctive aromas of the berries. The Alvarinho grapes come from the River Minho Valley, the birthplace of the variety, which is located in the Monção and Melgaço sub-regions. These sub-regions are surrounded by high mountains, which form a bell-jar shape, protecting the valley from the ocean winds and resulting in a hotter and dryer mesoclimate than other Vinho Verde sub-regions. The vines are planted on the slopes of the left bank of the Minho River, with a northern exposure and are trained according to a single cordon method. All the vines are cultivated sustainably, respecting the biodiversity of the environment

Winemaking

The grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness. The Loureiro grapes were de-stemmed and then both varieties of grapes were gently crushed in a pneumatic press. Each variety was vinified separately. The must was immediately fermented in stainless steel tanks with carefully selected yeasts. The wine was vinified without oak, to retain the purity of fruit. 

Tasting Note

A beautifully aromatic and deliciously fresh Vinho Verde, with vibrant citrus notes and delicate orange blossom. The fruit is underpinned by lively acidity and a mineral edge that leads to a long, elegant finish.

Grape

Loureriro 70%, Alvarinho 30%