Wines Vinho Verde Moncao e melcado - 2024 - 2024

Viniou Reviews

This 2024 Monção e Melgaço Vinho Verde is a fresh and vibrant white wine, made in the famed Vinho Verde DOC of northern Portugal. Crafted as a cuvée, it often incorporates a blend of indigenous grape varieties such as Alvarinho and Loureiro, renowned for producing lively, aromatic wines with pronounced acidity. The winemaking process in this appellation typically emphasises preserving freshness—grapes are picked early and fermentation happens at cool temperatures in stainless steel, resulting in a dry (sec) style wine with remarkable youthfulness and a gentle prickle from natural carbon dioxide, often characteristic of Vinho Verde.

The Vinho Verde region enjoys a cool, maritime climate influenced by proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which helps retain brilliant acidity and freshness in the wines. The granite-based soils here play a significant role in imparting a vivid, mineral edge. Historically, vineyards in Monção e Melgaço have been celebrated for producing some of the region’s most expressive Alvarinho-based wines, distinguished by their balance of juicy fruit, floral notes and refreshing minerality. Winegrowing in this part of Portugal goes back centuries, with Vinho Verde being one of the country’s most ancient and storied appellations.

Thanks to its crisp profile and light body, a Vinho Verde like this makes an excellent companion to a variety of foods. It shines alongside seafood—think grilled sardines, octopus salad or clams in white wine sauce—as well as lighter fare such as fresh goat cheese, bright summer salads or poultry with citrus accents. To underscore its Portuguese roots, try it with local dishes like bacalhau à Brás (salt cod and scrambled eggs) or arroz de marisco (seafood rice). These pairings balance the wine’s zesty acidity and accentuate its subtle fruit character.

For the best tasting experience, serve this Vinho Verde well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature range enhances its aromatic clarity and ensures its signature crispness remains at the fore, perfect for a warm afternoon or as a lively apéritif.