A traditional Portuguese field blend from the Trás-os-Montes region, produced in the village of Peredo de Bemposta. This wine is crafted from a very old vineyard parcel with vines over 70 years old, situated at an altitude of 600 to 700 meters. The terroir is a unique combination of granite and limestone soils, contributing to the wine's character. The winemakers, Frederico Machado and Ricardo Alves, adhere to a philosophy of sustainable viticulture, with their farming transitioning to organic practices. The name "Belfo" is a word for someone who speaks with their mouth full, a metaphor the wine aims to express in liquid form. For its 2023 vintage, Arribas Wine Company partnered with Projeto Água, led by Dr. Antonio Guillén, to study the Douro River's water quality by analyzing its microfauna and microflora.
The grapes, a traditional field blend of 60% red and 40% white varieties from the Arribas do Douro, were hand-picked on September 2nd and transported in 20 kg cases. The winemaking process is a deliberate homage to tradition. The grapes were whole-bunch foot-trodden, followed by a 48-hour period of skin contact. The juice was then pressed and racked into used French oak barrels, where both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations finished. The wine aged in these barrels for 12 months before being racked to a stainless steel tank for an additional 6 months of aging. The final product, with 2100 bottles, is unfined and unfiltered, reflecting its natural and authentic state, which may present sedimentation over time.
Tasting notes for this Palhete reveal a captivating wine with a subtle citrus character, a direct result of the co-fermentation with white grapes, adding complexity and vibrancy. The palate is light and elegant, with a refreshing acidity and a lively and balanced structure. The tannins are soft and delicate, contributing to a supple texture and smooth mouthfeel. The wine's mineral notes, a reflection of the schist soils, add depth and complexity, enhancing its overall character. The finish is clean and crisp, with lingering red fruit, citrus zest notes, and a subtle savory nuance. This wine is a delightful and refreshing expression of traditional Portuguese winemaking, embodying the essence of the Trás-os-Montes region and its potential for producing light, elegant, expressive, and approachable wines.
