Passo de Gigante, situated in the heart of Vila Verde, Portugal, represents a collaborative winemaking endeavor founded on the friendship and shared vision of Rui Oliveira and João Pires. Their journey began with the meticulous restoration of their century-old family winery, Quinta do Paço, which serves as their production facility and a "laboratory" for experimentation. Their overarching mission is to craft wines that genuinely embody the essence of the Vinho Verde region.
Sustainability is a foundational principle for Passo de Gigante. Their vineyards, nestled within the granitic soils of the Minho region, are cultivated with a range of local grape varietals. They utilize Alvarinho, Arinto, Loureiro, and Trajadura for white wines. Their red wine production relies on Vinhão, Padeiro de Basto, and Touriga Nacional grapes. In these vineyards, chemical intervention is minimized. Instead, the focus is on integrating the vineyards into the surrounding ecosystem and meticulous canopy management to ensure healthy grape development. This approach underscores their commitment to environmental responsibility and a holistic view of vineyard health.
The winemaking philosophy at Passo de Gigante centers on showcasing the pure potential of these grapes through minimal intervention. They allow for spontaneous fermentation, relying on native yeasts to guide the process, and explicitly avoid filtration or stabilization. Their clear philosophy dictates that their wines are a genuine expression of the grapes and the unique terroir of Vinho Verde.
Rui Oliveira and João Pires, the two passionate winemakers behind Passo de Gigante, infuse every step of their process, from tending the vines to crafting the wine, with unwavering dedication. This commitment is viewed as a crucial "giant leap" towards their vision of creating exceptional wines, a sentiment powerfully encapsulated in the winery's name, Passo de Gigante, which translates to "Giant Step." This dedication defines their approach to reviving and advancing the winemaking heritage of their region.
