Quinta da Romeyra Espumante Bruto 2023
Quinta da Romeyra Espumante Bruto
Region: Bucelas, Lisbon, Portugal
Vintage: 2023
Bottle size: 75cl
Grape: Arinto / Pedernã
ABV: 12%
Pale lemon in colour. Expressive aromas of fresh apple and white stone fruit are layered with subtle notes of brioche and nuts. The palate is lively and well-balanced, with fine, persistent bubbles and vibrant acidity. A delicate mineral note adds lift, carrying the defined fruit through onto a crisp, harmonious finish.
Located 15 miles north-east of Lisbon, the historic Bucelas appellation is protected from the worst of the Atlantic weather systems by hills to the west and benefits from the moderating influence of the wide estuary of the Tagus river to the east. This favourable mesoclimate, combined with clay-limestone soils on rolling hills, provides the perfect growing environment for Portugal’s Arinto grape variety to ripen to perfection - accumulating great intensity of flavour whilst retaining a crisp natural acidity. With 75 hectares planted mainly with Arinto, Quinta da Romeira is purported to be the largest Arinto vineyard in the world.
Upon arrival at the winery, the hand-harvested Arinto grapes were destemmed and gently pressed to obtain a very clear must. The first fermentation took place in stainless-steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve the freshness of the fruit. The second fermentation was carried out in the same bottle in which the wine was later released, in accordance with the traditional Champagne method. The wine was aged on the lees for a minimum of twelve months before riddling and disgorgement.
Quinta da Romeyra (formerly Quinta da Romeira) is one of the most prestigious estates in Bucelas, Portugal’s only exclusively white wine appellation. They pioneered modernisation in the region over the past 30 years and are believed to have the largest Arinto vineyard in the world (a grape variety they have been associated with since 1540), with 75 hectares of vineyard dedicated almost exclusively to the grape, planted on clay-limestone soils. The property was bought by the Guedes family in 2018, who have invested heavily in the estate, improving the viticulture and, as of 2023, putting the talented Luís Cabral de Almeida (of Herdade do Peso fame) in charge of winemaking.