Quinta dos Carvalhais Branco Especial

Vinification:
The grapes for this wine were received in the cellar in small boxes of 20 kg, being unloaded directly on the pneumatic press. The must, properly protected from oxidation through the use of inert gases, underwent static decantation at low temperatures over a period of 24 hours to reach the desired degree of clean. The fermentation took place in stainless steel vats for about 20 days at temperatures not exceeding 16ºC. The elaboration of this wine sought to rescue the traditional winemaking techniques of the region. These traditions involved the maturation of white wines for long periods of time in large and old oak hulls, where they experienced different weather conditions. Quinta dos Carvalhais Branco Special is composed of different three -year wines - 2004, 2005 and 2006, with an average of 8 years of aging in 225 liter oak barrels, also with varied ages. During this period, any type of intervention was avoided as much as possible. Then, the wines of the different barrels were proven one by one, being selected to the final lot those with the greatest potential for evolution, given the weather conditions.

TEST NOTES:
Of a very bright gold appearance, Quinta dos Carvalhais Special White is a sophisticated and very complex wine. Its bouquet is predominantly gunpowder, truffle, some honey and dry fruits, as well as oak notes and hot spices. It is a dense and united wine, with a complex taste and a vast aromatic range. Its acidity is alive and very well balanced with layers of aromas and oak grades from the years when this wine interned in barrels. It is fantastically full -bodied and has an elegant ending.

Storage advice and serve:
This wine should be served at 16ºC. Given its specific characteristics must be declined before serving, so that it breathes slightly. Once opened, it should be drunk immediately. However, 2 to 3 days can be preserved in the refrigerator as long as it is well listed.

Criticism and awards:
. 95 points wines magazine;
. 92 points Robert Parker;
. 18.5 points Wine large choices.