2023 Soalheiro Primeiras Vinhas

History of Quinta de Soalheiro and owners

Quinta de Soalheiro was founded in 1974 in the northern Melgaço, on the Portuguese side of the Minho River. João António Cerdeira was one of the first winegrowers in Portugal to recognize the potential of the Alvarinho grape. The first bottling under the Soalheiro label appeared in 1982. Since then, the winery has grown into a reference for high-quality white wines from the region. Today, the Cerdeira family – now in its third generation – runs the estate, with a focus on sustainability, precision and Alvarinho in all its facets.

Region, climate and location of the vineyards

The vineyards are located in Monção and Melgaço, a sub-region of Vinho Verde with a unique microclimate. The location between mountains protects the vineyards from excessive rain and wind, while the Minho river provides cooling. The soils are mainly granite, which gives the wines a pronounced minerality. The Alvarinho vines for this wine are over 40 years old and are located on the very first planted plots, hence the name 'Primeiras Vinhas'.

Grape variety and selection for Primeiras Vinhas

This wine is made entirely from Alvarinho, a grape variety that reaches its most aromatic and expressive form in Monção and Melgaço. For the Primeiras Vinhas, only old vines are used, which ensure low yields but high concentration and complexity. The grapes are grown organically and harvested by hand to ensure the quality of the fruit. Only the healthiest, ripest fruit is considered for this cuvée.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The grapes are taken directly to the cellar after harvest for a soft pressing. After cold clarification, the juice ferments at low temperatures, partly in stainless steel tanks and partly in used oak barrels and large foudres. The wine then matures for about six months on the fine lees, with regular bâtonnage. This method strengthens the texture and gives the wine extra depth without losing its fresh character. The wood influence is subtle and supports the structure, without being dominant.

Color, aroma and taste of the Primeiras Vinhas

The colour is bright lemon yellow with light golden reflections. The nose reveals an intense bouquet of peach, ripe apple, citrus blossom and wet stone, refined by a light spiciness of the wood. The taste is rich and layered, with a full structure, lively acids and a clear minerality. Ripe yellow fruit and a subtle saltiness make the wine exciting and complex. The finish is long, dry and harmonious. A wine with length, elegance and aging potential.

Would you like to order wines from Quinta de Soalheiro online?

This wine is stored in our conditioned Wine Warehouse. If you choose to collect in Dordrecht, you will often receive an attractive discount immediately. You will see this discount immediately when you choose 'Collect' on the checkout page. We are located near the A16 and offer ample parking. Click here for our address.

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Wine and food pairings with Primeiras Vinhas

Fried sole with beurre blanc and capers
The buttery sauce and salty note are perfectly balanced by the freshness and structure of the wine.

Risotto with green asparagus and Parmesan cheese
The creamy texture and umami of the cheese complement the complex body of the wine beautifully.

Salmon tartare with lime and dill
The freshness of the wine cuts through the fat of the salmon and enhances the citrusy spice.

Veal steak with grilled zucchini and lemon butter
The full body and fresh acids of the wine provide a nice counterbalance to the mild, juicy meat.

Salad with goat cheese, walnut and honey vinaigrette
The salty and sweet elements in the salad are elegantly complemented by the rich fruit structure of the wine.

Baked scallops with celeriac cream and hazelnut
The soft sweetness of the scallops and the creamy earthy notes of celeriac find a beautiful balance with the lively freshness of this Alvarinho.