Casa Ferreirinha : Antonia Adelaide Ferreira 2018

A Douro red wine with a seductive complexity and finesse

The estate

Owned by the Sogrape Group, one of the leading Portuguese wine producers, Casa Ferreirinha is synonymous with exception. Founded in the 18th century by Bernardo Ferreira, the house is renowned for its in-depth knowledge of the Douro vineyards and for the quality of its wines. Casa Ferreirinha was the first winery in Portugal to produce non-fortified Douro red wines.

The wine

Produced in a limited edition, this Douro wine pays tribute to Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira. Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira was a visionary and passionate woman who developed terraced vineyards in the 19th century. Paying great attention to the well-being of winegrowers, she improved their daily lives by building schools and hospitals. The local population nicknamed her "Ferreirinha", in other words "the little lady Ferreira".

Casa Ferreirinha's 2018 Antonia Adelaide Ferreira is made from grapes that stem from several local estates, including Leda, Seixo, Caêdo and Sairrão.

The vintage

The winter was cold and dry. The heavy rainfall throughout spring affected the flowering and increased disease pressure, resulting in low yields. Despite hot and dry summer conditions, water stress was minimal thanks to sufficient water reserves. The grapes harvested boasted a high quality.

Vinification and ageing

Vinification by plot at Quinta da Leda, gentle crushing and destemming precede alcoholic fermentation in steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, then ageing for approximately 30 months before final blending. No filtration before bottling.

The blend

Touriga Nacional (42%)
Touriga Franca (37%)
Vinhas Velhas (16%)
Sousão (5%).

2018 Antonia Adelaide Ferreira by Casa Ferreirinha: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
The colour is a beautiful ruby.

Nose
The complex palate blends fragrances of cedar, resin and tobacco box with savoury spicy (pepper, nutmeg) and fruity (red fruit) notes.

Palate
The fresh and smooth palate reveals round tannins as well as subtle peppery and woody aromas conferred by the ageing period. The finish is persistent and seductive with its elegance.

Cellaring

Enjoy now, this Douro red wine can be cellared until around 2028.

Service

For an optimal tasting, serve at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. The natural deposit that may appear in the bottle is a feature of this wine and does not alter its taste. Following its second year in bottle, it is recommended to decant this wine before drinking it.

Food and wine pairing

Cheese, red meat and game are ideal with this Portuguese red wine.