Type: Red
Vintage: 2013
Classification: Vinho Regional Alentejano
Climate: Mediterranean Alentejo
Soil: Quartz-diorite with red clay
Grape varietes: 85% Syrah and 15% Viognier
Production: 4560 bottles 75 cl
Analysis
Alcohol content: 15% vol.
Total acidity: 5.1 g / l
pH: 3.75
Consumption: 10 years
The year
The year 2013 was very similar in weather terms to 2012. Marked by intense rainfall at the beginning of the cycle, with very high temperatures during the maturation period and the threat of downpours at harvest time. Some night humidity posed a challenge in terms of fungal emergence, which we treated in our standard biodynamic way. 2013 is also the first year we harvested our Viognier grapes together with the Syrah, a practice well established in the Rhone valley of France. This year our wine has 85% Syrah and 15% of this white variety, which adds a clear floral nose and complexity and aromatic diversity to our wine. Since Viognier reaches maturity earlier than Syrah it is a delicate balance to harvest these grapes at the same time.
Winemaking: The night harvest was done in 12kg boxes, to avoid crushing damage to the grapes. We used carbonic maceration to achieve maximum extraction of colour and fruit flavors. This was followed by 15 days of fermentation in a temperature controlled environment. At the end soft pressing was followed by malolactic fermentation in our preferred French oak barrels. Also important to note that our entire process is achieved by using gravitational force for the transitions.
Ageing: Dona Dorinda 2013 aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, followed by more than a year in bottles. It was released in October 2015.
Winemaker's notes
Colour: Deep intense bright ruby
Aromas: This wine is of medium intensity, with a clear nose of flowers, especially violets. It has a nice cherry touch at the end.
Palate: Dry medium acidity medium(+) alcohol level and well integrated, medium tannins. An elegant wine, with a fluid and silky approach and medium but intense body.
Black fruits like black cherry, blackberry and raisins stand out and involve dark chocolate notes as well as a resinous wood end.
It is an excellent wine with long (10+) ageing potential.
Service
Accompanies roasts and strong dishes.
