The other day we reviewed a Vinho Verde from Great Sense and tonight we’re checking out another one, this one from Casa de Vila Verde.
Like many European vineyards, Casa de Vila Verde has a long history, going back to the mid-17th century within the same family. And like many European producers, the winery was modernized within the past 20 years — in this case it was in 1996. While in the US it’s fascinating to learn about vineyards with such a history, the story is so prevalent in Europe that when I speak to wine writers there they find it cliché. Maybe it is, but I still appreciate the family heritage that goes into many wines in the region versus the corporate heritage we find on many of the shelves in the US. That’s not to say there aren’t family wineries in the US, there are many of them, but very few with the extensive history of those from other regions.
The aromas on this wine are like fresh squeezed lime over green apples, with a whiff of honeysuckle in the background. The palate has really nice, vibrant acidity with flavors of fresh apple, lime and a touch of mineral. The finish is nice too, with plenty of citrus and mineral flavors lingering on. This one doesn’t offer the fizz you would find in many Vinho Verdes, but the acidity gives plenty of life to the mouth feel.
Wine: Casa de Vila Verde Vinho Verde
Variety: White blend
Vintage: 2010
Alcohol: 11.5%
Rating: 87
Price: $10.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.