quinta vale dona maria
Quinta Vale Dona Maria: A house of Excellence in Douro
Nestled in the heart of the Douro region, specifically in Cima Corgo within the Vale do Rio Torto, Quinta Vale Dona Maria is a name synonymous with a profound winemaking heritage. Its history traces back to 1868, but its true vinous journey began in 1996 when Cristiano van Zeller, driven by his passion, acquired the estate from his wife's family, Joana Lemos van Zeller.
A Legacy of Quality
Since then, Quinta Vale Dona Maria has become the birthplace of extraordinary wines, revered both nationally and internationally. Aveleda's acquisition of the estate in 2017, following their purchase of Quinta Vale do Sabor in the Douro Superior sub-region a year earlier, emphasized a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for the region's traditions.
Porto Wines Crafted with Tradition
At Quinta Vale Dona Maria, Port wines are meticulously crafted using traditional methods, including foot treading in granite lagares. Each Port is created with the utmost care and dedication, ensuring the highest quality.
Philosophy of Passion and Attention
The winemaking philosophy at Quinta Vale Dona Maria revolves around passion and attention to detail. From hand-selecting the finest berries to applying traditional winemaking techniques and sourcing the best French oak barrels, every aspect is carefully considered. Each bottling is a unique expression of its terroir.
Sustainable Viticulture
A profound respect for nature and sustainability is deeply ingrained in Quinta Vale Dona Maria's practices. They believe that quality and sustainability go hand in hand. Mechanization during harvest remains an exception; grapes are hand-picked and foot-trodden in the property's traditional granite lagares.
Biodiversity and Harmony
The estate promotes the development of life in the soil through various practices, including the planting of shrub and arboreal species. These efforts create ecological corridors and biodiversity refuges, fostering a harmonious balance between the soil, vines, and the surrounding environment.
Cutting-Edge Technology
To maintain this balance, they employ modern technology, using drones for vineyard analysis. This provides valuable data on vigor and water stress, aiding in targeted interventions when necessary.
Quinta Vale D. Maria
This sub-region of Cima Corgo boasts 36 hectares of old vines that have witnessed generations. Within the estate, a 10-hectare vineyard, over 60 years old, is home to 41 grape varieties. These include Rufete, Tinta Amarela, Tinta Francisca, Sousão, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Roriz, planted in a mixed fashion, each with distinct sun exposures, forming the essence of Quinta Vale Dona Maria's Douro red wine.
Vinha do Rio
Vinha do Rio, a centenary vineyard near the Rio Torto, enjoys a unique location that allows for slower and balanced maturation. With 29 varieties, including Tinta Barroca, this vineyard produces grapes with exceptional terroir-driven characteristics.
Vinha de Martim
In the Murça area, Vila de Martim is home to a vineyard of less than 1 hectare, over 80 years old. The grape varieties from this vineyard form the genesis of a remarkable wine, exemplifying the Douro's ability to produce fresh white wines.
Vinha da Francisca
Named after Cristiano van Zeller's daughter, Vinha da Francisca, planted in 2004, occupies 4 hectares with varieties like Sousão, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Rufete, and Tinta Francisca. This vineyard showcases the Douro's capability to produce exceptionally fresh wines with balance and elegance.
Quinta Vale do Sabor
In the Douro Superior, Quinta Vale do Sabor spreads across 42 hectares with some plots over 35 years old. Planted with varieties like Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alicante Bouschet, and Baga, this vineyard reflects the unique terroir of its location.
Vinha do Moinho
Acquired in 2001 by Cristiano van Zeller, Vinha do Moinho comprises vineyards facing west and south. The oldest section, over 80 years old, predominantly features Touriga Franca and Tinta Barroca. This vineyard yields wines of distinctive character.
Quinta Vale Dona Maria is not merely a winery; it's a testament to a commitment to quality, sustainability, and the enduring legacy of Cristiano van Zeller.
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Cristiano van Zeller
Joana Pinhão
Manuel Soares
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1997 / 1999 / 2000 / 2001 / 2002 / 2003 / 2005 / 2007 / 2009 / 2011 / 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017
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1969 / 1990
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Quinta Vale D. Maria
Quinta Vale do Sabor
Vinha da Francisca
Vinha de Martim
Vinha do Rio
Vinha do Moinho
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Aveleda
