A white wine that embodies the principles of sustainable winemaking, reflecting the producer's commitment to organic farming practices and a low-tech approach. This wine is crafted from a blend of 70% Malvasia and 30% indigenous grapes, including Bastardo Branco, Formosa, and Poilta, sourced from plots aged between 40 to 60 years, cultivated in schist soils. The grapes undergo a gentle foot-trodden process before pressing, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks using natural yeasts. This method ensures a delicate extraction and preserves the natural freshness of the wine.
The tasting notes of Menina d'Uva's 2021 Líquen Branco are characterized by a subtle yet complex aromatic profile, evoking the scents of highland grasslands, dried flora, rock outcrops, and open blue skies. The wine presents a soft-colored hue and offers a low-to-medium alcohol content, contributing to its refreshing and balanced character. On the palate, it is texturally rich despite no intentional skin contact, with high amplitude mineral and metallic sensations that resonate throughout, complemented by a streak of fresh acidity. The finish is lengthy, engaging all points of the palate, making it an extremely pleasant wine with a welcome surprise of freshness for a white from the Trás-os-Montes region, known for its heavier wines.
This wine is ideal for pairing with a variety of dishes, particularly those that highlight its savory and herbal notes, such as dried pasta, bread dough, and dried herbs. The fruit flavors are nuanced, falling within the white flesh spectrum, with hints of pear, apple, and cherimoya. Líquen Branco is best served at a temperature of 10-12°C and can be enjoyed now, though it will continue to evolve over the next two to five years.
