A compelling rendition of the traditional Portuguese "Palhete" wine. The estate's vineyards, planted on clay-limestone soils rich in fossils, bear witness to the region's ancient marine origins, a unique terroir that, combined with the humid Atlantic climate and mild temperatures, provides ideal conditions for viticulture. This distinctive setting allows Vale da Capucha to produce wines that authentically express the nuances of their land, particularly evident in their modern interpretation of the Palhete style.
Historically, Palhete refers to a light-bodied red wine, a product of co-fermenting red and white grape varieties, with white grapes typically constituting no more than 15% of the blend. Vale da Capucha's Palhete adheres to this tradition, utilizing a blend of Castelão, a red variety, and Arinto, a white variety. These indigenous Portuguese grapes are sourced from the estate's coastal vineyards, benefiting from the cooling influence of the Atlantic winds. The viticulture is characterized by minimal intervention, allowing the vines to express their natural character and the nuances of the terroir. Hand-harvesting ensures careful selection of the grapes, preserving their quality.
Vale da Capucha employs artisanal winemaking techniques in the winery, including co-fermentation of the red and white grapes in stainless steel tanks. This co-fermentation, a defining characteristic of Palhete, is essential for achieving the wine's characteristic light color and delicate flavor profile. The wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks, preserving its freshness and fruit-forward character. Minimal sulfur additions are used, reflecting a commitment to natural winemaking practices.
Tasting notes for Vale da Capucha's Palhete reveal a light-bodied and refreshing wine. The aromatic profile is characterized by a blend of red fruit notes, such as strawberry, raspberry, and red currant, accompanied by subtle floral and herbal undertones. The co-fermentation with Arinto contributes subtle citrus and white floral notes, adding complexity to the aromatic profile. On the nose, the Palhete also offers subtle vegetal notes, underpinned by mineral and smoky nuances that reflect the limestone-rich soils. The palate is elegant, with an enveloping texture and a refreshing acidity that imparts a gastronomic quality to the wine. Its bright acidity and soft, delicate tannins create a balanced and refreshing structure. The wine's complexity is further enhanced by subtle mineral notes, reflecting the influence of the clay-limestone soils and the maritime climate. The finish is clean and crisp, with lingering red fruit flavors and a subtle savory nuance. This balance of fruit, minerality, and freshness makes it a versatile companion to various dishes. Vale da Capucha's commitment to minimal intervention in the vineyard and winery allows the unique characteristics of their terroir to shine through, offering wine enthusiasts an authentic and expressive taste of the Lisbon wine region's heritage. This wine is intended for early consumption, offering a delightful and refreshing expression of the traditional Palhete style and the unique terroir of the Vale da Capucha estate.
