Quinta de Azevedo is a historic estate in Minho, with 34 hectares of vineyards planted with indigenous varieties, producing elegant white wines that reflect the region’s unique character. Located near the Cávado River in northern Portugal, the estate’s origins date back to the 12th century. The Guedes family acquired the property in 1982 and has since modernised its approach to viticulture while preserving its historical charm.

The vineyards use a modern cordon-trained system, replacing the traditional pergola method. This system allows better air circulation, improved sun exposure, and healthier, riper grapes at harvest. Winemaker Diogo Sepúlveda crafts wines with freshness and precision, fermenting the grapes in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures to retain their natural aromas. Loureiro contributes tropical and citrus fruit aromas with a mineral edge, while Alvarinho adds stone fruit, structure, and complexity.

The Azevedo Loureiro/Alvarinho, from estate and regional growers, holds the Vinho Verde DOC classification. It’s a crisp, refreshing wine with notes of ripe citrus, nectarine, lime blossom, and fresh mango. Sustainable farming practices are employed, with cover crops planted to improve soil health, absorb excess rainwater, and promote biodiversity.

The grapes are gently destemmed, cooled, and pressed at low temperatures to preserve freshness. The must ferments in stainless steel vats at 14-15ºC, with a portion undergoing pre-fermentation maceration to extract aromatics. The wine is aged on its lees for three months with regular batonnage to enhance texture before bottling.

This wine is clear and bright, with vibrant aromas of citrus, nectarine, lime blossom, and mango. The palate is crisp, with well-integrated acidity and a firm structure, leading to a long, tropical finish.

This wine pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, light salads, and grilled vegetables. It also complements dishes like goat cheese, seafood pasta, or sushi, enhancing their delicate flavours with its refreshing acidity and tropical fruit notes.