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Herdade do Rocim - Amphora Branco

Sale price€16,50

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A respectful homage to the two-thousand-year-old tradition of vinho de talha—wine fermented and aged in large, unlined terracotta amphorae, a practice revived in the Alentejo region of Portugal.

The production adheres strictly to ancestral methods, utilizing a blend of local grape varieties, including Antão Vaz, Perrum, Rabo de Ovelha, and Manteúdo. Crucially, the grapes undergo fermentation with indigenous yeasts in the talha (amphorae) without any temperature control or must corrections. The wine remains in contact with the grape skins for an extended period—a technique fundamental to its distinctive character. Following this prolonged skin contact and amphora aging, the wine typically rests in the bottle for a few months before release. This approach emphasizes minimal intervention; the wine is often bottled without stabilization, which can result in a slight, natural sediment but preserves the wine's potential for evolution and complexity.

In the glass, the Amphora Branco displays a striking golden colour. The aromatic profile is complex and fresh, immediately revealing the impact of skin contact through smoked, spicy, and vegetal notes, which often evoke nuances of tomato leaf and grapefruit. On the palate, the wine presents as firm, dry, and distinctly textured—a hallmark of its production method.8 Despite the texture, it maintains a remarkable freshness. The finish is notably long and mineral, showcasing a subtle salinity that underscores the wine's unique terroir and its close link to the earth and clay vessels used for its creation. It is a savory, textural white wine that rewards careful contemplation.

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Herdade do Rocim

Herdade do Rocim, a prominent wine producer in Portugal's Alentejo region, has a rich history and a commitment to sustainable winemaking practices. The estate, located between Vidigueira and Cuba, was established in 2000 and has since become a significant player in the Portuguese wine industry. Covering an area of approximately 150 hectares, with 70 hectares dedicated to vineyards, Herdade do Rocim has invested heavily in replanting vines and introducing new grape varieties to enhance the quality and diversity of its wines.

The winemaking at Herdade do Rocim is led by Pedro Ribeiro, who is both the co-owner and the winemaker. Under his guidance, the winery has embraced innovative techniques, particularly the use of amphorae, large terracotta vessels traditionally used in the region. This approach has set Herdade do Rocim apart, as it revives ancient winemaking practices that contribute to the unique character of their wines. The winery hosts an annual Amphora Wine Day, celebrating this method and bringing together producers who share this passion.

Sustainability is a core focus for Herdade do Rocim. The estate is certified under the Wines of Alentejo Sustainability Programme, which aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote environmentally friendly practices. This commitment is reflected in their minimal intervention approach in the vineyard and cellar, as well as their use of eco-friendly packaging, such as lighter weight bottles and recycled cardboard cartons.

In addition to their dedication to traditional and sustainable winemaking, Herdade do Rocim is known for producing a wide range of wines, including the "Olho de Mocho," "Rocim," and "Grande Rocim" labels. Their wines are celebrated for their freshness, elegance, and mineral qualities, which are attributed to the unique terroir of the Alentejo region, characterized by granite soils and the cooling influence of Atlantic winds.Through these efforts, Herdade do Rocim continues to honor its heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern winemaking.