António Maçanita is one of those winemakers who makes you wonder if he ever sleeps. Widely regarded as one of Portugal's most dynamic young talents, he crafts wines from the Azores all the way to Alentejo. This Branco is from Alentejo, a blend of Roupeiro, Rabo de Ovelha, Antão Vaz, Tamarez, Alicante Branco, and Arinto. They come from two organic vineyards planted on granitic and limestone soils, up to 400 metres in altitude. Whole bunch pressed, native fermented mostly in stainless barrels, with the second pressing going into older barrels. Then it stays there on the lees for six months before bottling.
Meadow grass, elderflower, white grapefruit. The palate is sleek and lifted, scented with pine nuts, lit with a buzzy grip that lingers on the finish. Tastes like spring which is something we could use right now.
