Casa da Passarella Villa Oliveira Vinha Centenária Pai d' Aviz 2018 Red Wine

Casa da Passarella Villa Oliveira Vinha Centenária Pai D'Aviz is a distinguished red wine from the Dão region of Portugal, produced by Casa da Passarella. This wine is a highlight of their "Villa Oliveira" collection, which focuses on expressing the unique character of specific vineyard plots, particularly centenary (100-year-old) vineyards. "Vinha Centenária Pai D'Aviz" refers to a very old vineyard, reflecting the Dão's viticultural heritage from a century ago. This wine is typically a blend of a wide array of indigenous grape varieties, including Baga, Jaen, Tinta Amarela, Alvarelhão, Tinta Pinheira, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Carvalha, among others, all sourced from this specific old vine plot. The winemaking often involves spontaneous fermentation in traditional granite lagares (open stone troughs) with partial stems, followed by extended aging in large, used oak barrels (like 25hl tonéis) for a significant period (e.g., 36 months).

Villa Oliveira Vinha Centenária Pai D'Aviz" typically exhibits an open ruby color. On the nose, it is complex and inviting, with notes of wild fruits, earthy undertones, floral nuances, and a subtle vegetal character. On the palate, it reveals itself as elegant, fresh, and intense, culminating in a very long finish that encourages another taste. This wine is notable for its structure, freshness, and aromatic complexity, harmonizing perfectly with red meat dishes, grilled white meats, and intense, hard cheeses, such as Serra da Estrela cheese. It's a wine that faithfully reflects the unique terroir and history of its centenary vineyard, offering an authentic Dão experience.