Quinta do Crasto Reserva Vinhas Velhas 2020

Wine Year

The year 2020 was extremely demanding, not only due to the global pandemic, but also due to the very harsh weather conditions, presenting itself as a hot and dry year during the crucial period of grape ripening. This was the warmest winter since 2005, but high rainfall was recorded, especially in December, both at Quinta da Cabreira (Douro Superior) and Quinta do Crasto (Cima Corgo). The months of March to June were also accompanied by high rainfall and high temperatures, which led to an early budbreak, about ten days earlier than usual. During this period there was greater pressure due to the possibility of diseases appearing in the vineyard, and permanent and very strict monitoring by the viticulture team was essential to avoid possible foci of infection. July and August were hot months, but fortunately there was some availability of water in the soil that ensured the correct ripening of the grapes. However, it was essential not to miss the optimal harvest point in order to avoid the threat of grape dehydration. The harvest began on 17 August and ended on 25 September. It was a harvest of lower production with the vines presenting smaller bunches and
Grapes of smaller diameter, with an excellent ratio between the skin and the pulp, and consequently an excellent concentration. A harvest marked by the Covid-19 pandemic but, with all the professionalism and dedication of the Quinta do Crasto team, gave rise to the production of white wines with excellent balance, freshness and aromatic definition and very complete red wines, with very expressive fruit, seductive texture and excellent persistence.

Vinification

The grapes from Vinhas Velhas were transported in boxes of 22 kg capacity and subjected to a rigorous sorting at a sorting table at the entrance of the winery. After a total destemming and a slight crushing, the must was transferred to stainless steel fermentation vats with controlled temperature. At the end of the alcoholic fermentation, a gentle pressing was carried out.

Aging

Quinta do Crasto Reserva Vinhas Velhas aged in French oak barrels (85%) and American oak (15%), where it stayed for about 18 months.

Tasting Notes

With a deep ruby colour, it impresses on the nose for its complexity, where it is possible to find aromas of red fruits in perfect harmony with forest aromas, highlighting fresh notes of rock rose. On the palate it presents an elegant beginning, evolving into a wine of great solidity, composed of tannins with a velvety texture. Enveloping, balanced, fresh and very persistent finish. A wine of extraordinary complexity that fully reflects the essence of the old vines of Quinta do Crasto.

Endnotes

Designation of Origin: Douro
Country: Portugal
Producer: Quinta do Crasto
Winemaker: Manuel Lobo
Grape Varieties: Vinhas Velhas (blend of 25 to 30 different varieties)
Age of Vines: Average 70 years
Altitude: 120-450 m
Total Acidity: 5,4 gr/L
pH: 3.75
Consumption Temperature: 16-18º
Suitable for Vegans