Authentic Wines is the realization of a shared vision between two friends, Pedro Cabanita and Rodrigo Martins, who apply their deeply held values of authenticity to the world of winemaking. Their philosophy centers on creating natural wines, defined by their solely freshly fermented juice composition, with no additions or subtractions. This minimalist approach allows the inherent characteristics of the grape varieties and the terroir to express themselves fully in the final wine. The resulting wines are noted for their Atlantic influence, exhibiting a natural acidity, pronounced freshness, and, at times, a subtle salinity.
The viticultural practices at Authentic Wines are firmly rooted in organic farming. Pedro Cabanita's background as an agronomist with extensive experience in organic farming products and bio-stimulants directly informs their vineyard management. They prioritize the cultivation of Portuguese grape varieties, with a particular emphasis on those indigenous to the Lisboa region. The vineyards benefit from their proximity to the western sea coast of Portugal, a location that imparts the distinct Atlantic character to their wines. Rodrigo Martins, a native of the Lisboa region with a degree in Agronomics and a master's in winemaking, oversees all vineyard operations. This meticulous supervision is driven by the dual goals of achieving the highest quality and freshness in the grapes while adhering to sustainable practices.
The Lisboa region, where Authentic Wines' vineyards are situated, plays a crucial role in shaping the style of their wines. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean creates a maritime climate characterized by moderate temperatures, higher humidity, and cooling sea breezes. This influence contributes to developing grapes with vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. Rodrigo Martins' deep knowledge of this region further informs their grape selection and vineyard management, ensuring optimal expression of the local terroir.
Sustainability is not merely an aspiration but an integral component of Authentic Wines' production ethos. Their commitment to organic farming is fundamental to this, fostering soil health and biodiversity while avoiding synthetic inputs. Pedro Cabanita's expertise in organic farming practices underscores this dedication. The producers explicitly state that sustainable vineyard management is particularly critical in the context of natural winemaking, where there are limited opportunities for intervention in the cellar to rectify issues that may arise from compromised fruit. This holistic approach, from vineyard to cellar, reflects a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to producing authentic wines that truly reflect their origin.
