Adega do Vulcão - 2023 - Clarete

A refined expression of the volcanic terroir of Pico Island in the Azores, offering a unique profile that bridges the gap between a deep rosé and a light red. This vintage is crafted from a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Merlot, grapes grown in the "lajido"—the ancient lava crusts that define the region's landscape. The wine undergoes a careful vinification process involving a three-day cold maceration in stainless steel followed by fermentation in specialized WiseShape cement vats using indigenous yeasts, which helps to preserve the purity of the fruit and the saline influence of the Atlantic.

On the nose, the 2023 Clarete is dominated by vibrant aromas of wild strawberries and red currants, layered with a distinct, stony minerality reminiscent of graphite. The palate is exceptionally light and elegant, characterized by a refreshing, well-balanced acidity that makes it incredibly easy to drink. Its finish is marked by a persistent saltiness and flinty character, a hallmark of the basaltic soils from which it originates. With a modest alcohol content of 12%, this wine is highly versatile, serving as a brilliant companion for seafood, light meat dishes, or simply as a sophisticated aperitif served slightly chilled between 12°C and 14°C.