A sophisticated signature wine that captures the depth and character of the Douro Valley through a lens of meticulous craftsmanship and regional tradition. Produced by the husband-and-wife team of Hugo Mateus and Ana Hespanhol, this wine is distinct from their experimental UNDO project, representing a polished and structural expression of their high-altitude estate vineyards at Quinta do Zimbro.
The viticulture for the 2018 Tinto is deeply rooted in sustainable and organic principles, though the estate remains uncertified to maintain full creative and agricultural freedom. The grapes are sourced from approximately 13 hectares of land characterized by fractured schist soils and dry-farming methods, which naturally limit yields and concentrate the berry flavors. The blend is composed of traditional Portuguese varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinto Cão, which are harvested by hand in small 25kg boxes to ensure the fruit remains intact until it reaches the winery.
This 2018 vintage was shaped by a cooler growing season, resulting in a wine of exceptional balance and freshness. The winemaking process is defined by honesty and a lack of cosmetic additions; the grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 24 months in French oak barrels, a period that allows for a seamless integration of wood and fruit. Reflecting a commitment to purity, the wine is bottled without fining or filtration, and it is only released to the market after an additional period of maturation in the bottle.
The wine offers a sensory profile that is both powerful and elegant. It presents an intense red color in the glass, leading to a complex nose where ripe red fruit aromas—such as wild berries and plums—harmonize with subtle notes of cocoa, vanilla, and the toast of French oak. On the palate, the wine reveals a beautiful structure with well-defined, rolling tannins and a lively acidity that provides a refreshing lift to the rich, soft fruit flavors. The finish is long and captivating, marked by a lingering mineral edge. This wine is best enjoyed at 15 to 17 degrees Celsius and pairs excellently with roasted meats, game, or matured cheeses.
