2021 Soalheiro Granit Alvarinho

• This wine won "Best in Region and Best in Portgual" by Portuguese magazine
• Only 75 cases imported
• BHW has the Lowest Price Anywhere!
• Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles

About the Wine

You've probably heard of Albarino from NW Spain and Rias Baixas, located just north of the Mino river. Well, just south of that river lies a similar climate in Portugal that producers outstanding Alvarinho.

Do you love aromatic white wines but you're tired of Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Grigio? Let us introduce you to a special white wine from Portugal. 

Soalheiro is a renowned winery crafting exceptional Alvarinho wines from the heart of Portugal's Monção and Melgaço region, which is considered the best region for white wines in the whole country. This region also produces the famous Vinho Verde "green wine" that is intended to be drunk in its youth. Alvarinho is considered to the best white grape in the region and the top producers make this into a single varietal wine to showcase it's beauty. This sun-kissed area, with its unique blend of climate and soil, is the perfect stage for the Alvarinho grape to shine.

In the north of the country with heavy Atlantic influence, the region remains cool allowing white wine grapes to dominate the vineyards. The results of these grapes in such a cool maritime climate is energetic wines made with crystalline purity.  

The Cerdeira family's journey began in 1974 with a pioneering spirit that continues to shape Soalheiro today. Their dedication to sustainable farming practices and a deep respect for the land are evident in every bottle.

Soalheiro's philosophy centers on capturing the true essence of the Alvarinho grape and its surrounding terroir. In the cellar, gentle winemaking techniques are prioritized to preserve the fruit's purity and freshness. The focus is on highlighting the natural character of the Alvarinho grape, rather than overpowering it with excessive intervention.

While many Alvarinhos are best enjoyed young, Soalheiro Alvarinho also exhibits potential for aging. Rightfully bearing the name Granit, this wine is all about minerality. It offers less fruit and more acidity, revealing an unusual dimension of Alvarinho from the mountain. Its elegance and crisp texture make Soalheiro Granit a very gastronomic wine.

Tasting Notes

 100%  Alvarinho. Granit has a bright, lemon-yellow colour, exhibiting elegant aromas with more mineral notes. The taste is crisp, dry, and persistent, with more earthy and stony flavours. There is a sensation of saltiness on the palate, reflecting the impact of the granite soils on Alvarinho.

Aging: Stainless with battonage and aging on the lees.

Critical Reviews

~Revista Grandes Escolhas "The Best Wines of Portugal"

A layered white set in a light- to medium-bodied frame, with sleek acidity enlivening flavors of ripe green apple, yellow peach and kumquat. Shows hints of pickled ginger, slate, anise and sea salt that echo on the bright finish. Drink now through 2028. 4,166 cases made, 75 cases imported. ~91 Wine Spectator

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