Vitor Claro, a former professional chef, embarked on his winemaking journey in 2010 when he founded Dominó as a side project while still working in the culinary world. His transition from chef to winemaker was significantly influenced by his collaboration with Dirk Niepoort, a prominent figure in the Portuguese wine industry. This partnership sparked Claro's interest in viticulture, leading him to eventually dedicate himself entirely to winemaking. Claro's culinary background is evident in his wines, which are noted for their finesse and complexity, reminiscent of the Burgundy wines that initially captivated him.
Dominó, co-owned by Vitor and his wife Rita Claro, is situated in the Alentejo region, specifically in the Serra de São Mamede near Portalegre. This area is known for its cooler climate compared to the rest of Alentejo, offering a unique terroir that contributes to the distinct freshness and bright fruit character of Dominó wines. The couple has focused on reviving old and sometimes forgotten vineyards, which are integral to their winemaking philosophy. These vineyards, some with vines as old as 80 years, are farmed using organic practices, although they are not certified. The soils in these vineyards vary, including granite, quartz, sand, clay, and limestone, providing a diverse range of flavors and characteristics to the wines.
The winemaking process at Dominó is characterized by its simplicity and minimal intervention. Vitor and Rita rely on natural processes, eschewing modern technologies such as refrigeration in their wine production. This approach is part of their commitment to sustainability and authenticity, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes and the terroir to shine through. The wines are typically made by crushing whole bunches, followed by a maceration and fermentation process that includes all solids. After fermentation, the wines are aged in concrete tanks, a technique that helps maintain their purity and freshness.
In addition to their Alentejo wines, Vitor Claro has expanded his portfolio to include wines from other regions such as Arruda dos Vinhos, Torres Vedras, Sintra, and the historically significant Carcavelos. This expansion reflects his ongoing passion for discovering and revitalizing Portugal's viticultural heritage.
