VZ Tinto 2023

Grape Varieties: Crafted by Hand, the VZ Douro red is produced with grapes that are sourced from different vineyards. The main vineyard is located in Valença do Douro, at 450 metres altitude, planted with a mixed planting of over 20 varieties. Other vineyards are located in the Rio Torto valley and above Pinhão in Casal de Loivos. All vineyards are field blends. We estimate there are around 30 different grape varieties in this wine.

Soil: Shist

Vinification: All grapes are selected before being foot trodden in lagares for 1 to 3 days before fermentation. The must will ferment in granite stone tanks and then finish fermentation in stainless steel tanks in controlled temperatures, ranging from 22ºC to 27ºC with pigeages by hand. We then rack the resulting wines in one and two year old French oak barrels (225 and 300 litres), from selected coopers, where they go through malolactic fermentation. All wines were then carefully aged for 26 months in barrels, keeping all different fermentations completely separate until the final blending took place in October 2024. The wine then rested for 2 months in stainless steel tanks until bottling.

Tasting Notes: Crafted by hand, Van Zellers & Co VZ 2023 Douro Red shows vibrant notes of wild berries, fresh herbs and a subtle earthy undertone. The tannins are present yet well integrated, giving the wine a rounded, generous texture, balanced by natural freshness. The palate is harmonious and inviting, making it a wine that easily calls for another glass. It pairs beautifully with truffle-flavoured cheeses or meats, grilled and barbecued dishes, and fresh herbs such as dill, coriander, cilantro and parsley. Serve at 16ºC.

Winemaker: Cristiano van Zeller and Joana Pinhão.

Availability: In 1-5 business days