Natura Vinhão Loureiro 2019: Vitor Matos e António Sampaio

Natura Vinhão Loureiro 2019

Natura By Vítor Matos Vinhão Loureiro 2019 is an unusual red wine from Minho, born from the partnership between chef Vítor Matos and winemaker António Sampaio (AJTS). Produced in only 380 bottles, it is a Minho regional wine that combines the Atlantic rusticity of Vinhão with the aromatic freshness of Loureiro.

Vintage 2019

The vineyard, planted in poor granite soils near the Tâmega River, naturally produces concentrated wines with body and high acidity. In 2019, Vinhão gave a less alcoholic, fresher and more herbaceous profile, perfect for this unusual blend, which favours tension and lightness over alcoholic power.

Vinification

The Vinhão is trodden by foot, with prolonged and extractive maceration, ending fermentation in stainless steel. The Loureiro de Gatão is pressed directly, fermented and aged for six months in stainless steel on fine lees. This is followed by the final blend (50% Vinhão, 50% Loureiro) and a further six months' ageing in stainless steel. The wine is bottled with filtration and slight stabilisation, preserving all the purity of the fruit.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it displays an intense, vivid colour. The nose reveals violet, notes of laurel and very clean fresh fruit. On the palate, it is a young, light red wine with incredible freshness, well-defined fruit, tannins tamed by Loureiro and a vibrant finish that challenges the classic idea of Vinhão.

Grape varieties

50% Vinhão (Ribeira) and 50% Loureiro (Gatão).