On many mornings, from the terrace of the Soalheiro winery in the far north of Portugal, one can witness the unpredictable weather of Melgaço, with Galicia, on the other side of the Minho River, hidden behind a dense curtain of fog.
The fog ends abruptly, and the deep green landscapes magically reappear. The geometry of the vineyards coexist in perfect balance with the villages, the forests, and the mountains.
From the balcony of Soalheiro, the mountainous belt that forms a natural amphitheater of valleys along the Minho River is jaw dropping. The river is responsible for the unique microclimate of Melgaço, characterized by a continental influence, with cold, rainy winters and a hot, dry summer.
The natural green roof, is not only a testimony of the winery's respect for nature, but also decreases the energy consumption, while naturally maintaining a lower temperature in the cellar.
The soil is a fundamental element in the character of the vineyard and the profile of its wines. Granite, large amounts of sediments, and schist predominate in this region.
In 1974 Soalheiro planted in Melgaço the first continuous vineyards exclusively with Alvarinho grapes. The plot is called Soalheiro, because it receives sunlight throughout the day, which gave the name to the brand.
These are literally the roots of "The Pur Terroir" project, aromatic herbs used for infusions and cooking by the inhabitants of Monção and Melgaço for generations.
Infusion is the process of extracting active compounds or flavors from plants, flowers, fruits, barks, or roots using water, oil or alcohol.
In 1982 Soalheiro became a pioneer in Melgaço by bottling its first single-varietal Alvarinho wine.
Today Soalheiro celebrates the 40th anniversary with an exclusive wine collection. These labels pay homage to the original bottle and Soalheiro's founder, João António Cerdeira.
The Soalheiro "Mineral" category pays tribute to the region's well-drained granite soils and the mineral touch present in virtually all Soalheiro wines.
The winery is always looking for innovative ways to improve its Enotourism and Ecotourism programs. The design for this tasting room was inspired by the surrounding vineyards and landscapes.
Wine production with an emphasis on the natural and traditional has led to new solutions.
An egg-shaped concrete tank allows the constant circulation of wine contact with lees which enhances flavor complexity. The concrete naturally regulates the temperature of the wine.
A spin barrel system at the "Cellar of Innovation" allow bâtonnage with little intervention, keeping the lees in constant contact with the wine. A wine called "Revirado" is the result.
The Cube, a new container that allows us to appreciate how a wine behaves while fermenting and resting.
Even the smallest details to guarantee consistency and quality are followed. The winery respects viticultural and enological traditions, but it is also open to experimentation.
New ideas continue to bubble up and bear fruit. Inspired by perhaps the oldest wine tradition, wine made in amphoras, Soalheiro honors ancient cultures and traditions.
Tradition should not reject innovation and efficiency. Soalheiro's essence is "Moving forward without leaving their place."
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