Azores Wine Company Vinha dos Aards 1st Jeiroes 2020

Vinha dos Aards comes from one of the 1º Jeirões frontline plots. The Aard family sold it in 1923, it was replanted in 1924 by the Cardozos, and it has now returned to careful stewardship under Azores Wine Company. The vines grow in basalt rock crevices and are protected by stone currais from wind and saltwater. Their proximity to the ocean and the age of the site produce extremely low yields and a deeply expressive, maritime driven wine. Only 1,333 bottles were made, offering a singular expression of Pico’s oldest viticultural heritage.

Arinto dos Açores (90%), Verdelho, Alicante Branco and Boal planted in solid lava stone soils formed 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. Fermentation is spontaneous. First presses ferment in horizontal stainless steel vats, seventy percent of the blend. Second presses ferment in used French oak barrels at least three years old, thirty percent of the blend. Sulfites are added only at the end of fermentation. The wine ages 15 months on lees.

Citrus yellow with hints of straw. Aromas of iodine, salt, linden and pitanga. Dense and concentrated on the palate with vibrant acidity extending through the finish. Pronounced maritime character with persistent notes of salt and iodine.

Pairing suggestions include shellfish and seafood driven dishes. Its density and concentration also pair well with richer white meats with crisped fat like suckling pig or pork belly.