A refreshing and aromatic profile that stands in stark contrast to classic Douro reds, crafted by the winemaking team of Hugo Mateus and Ana Hespanhol. This wine is a central part of the UNDO project, which seeks to challenge the traditional, high-alcohol standards of the region by "undoing" typical cellar interventions to reveal a fresher, more playful side of the Douro terroir.
Unlike the concentrated and oak-heavy reds often associated with the valley, Trocas Tintas is designed as a lighter, high-energy wine that emphasizes fruit purity and drinkability. The viticulture for this wine is rooted in a commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of the Douro’s diverse landscape. The grapes are sourced from small-scale viticulturists and estate vineyards that prioritize organic and sustainable farming methods.
By working with high-altitude plots and specific vine orientations, Grau Baumé ensures the fruit retains a high level of natural acidity and moderate sugar levels. This careful selection of terroir allows for a red wine that feels nimble and bright, reflecting the schist-driven soils and the rugged terrain of the Cima Corgo sub-region without the need for aggressive extraction.
In the cellar, the sustainable philosophy translates into a low-intervention winemaking process. The fruit undergoes a gentle fermentation using indigenous yeasts, often involving whole-cluster inclusion or shorter maceration times to keep the tannins soft and the aromatics lifted. True to the UNDO philosophy, the wine is made with minimal sulfur, no additives, and is bottled without fining or heavy filtration, ensuring that the final profile remains raw and expressive of its origins.
On the nose, it is remarkably expressive, featuring a bouquet of wild red berries, fresh herbs, and a distinct floral lift reminiscent of violets. The palate is light to medium-bodied, characterized by a crunchy, forest-fruit acidity and very fine, integrated tannins. There is a noticeable mineral streak throughout, providing a savory edge that balances the juicy primary fruit. Its effortless drinkability and low-intervention character make it an excellent example of the new wave of Portuguese winemaking that prioritizes elegance and freshness over power.
