Arinto, Verdelho
75cl * 13.5% ABV * Alentejo, Portugal
In Portuguese ‘Fonte’ means source of water or fountain, and ‘Souto’ is a chestnut grove. The combination of the two words in the estate’s name symbolises the abundance of water from the estate’s natural springs and its beautiful chestnut groves. The Fonte Souto Estate white wine embodies all the strengths of the property's unique terroir. The freshness and balance afforded by the altitude; the concentration, which derives from mature, low-yielding vines, and the complexity and structure provided by the barrel fermentation sur-lie with bâtonnage. This white allows for maximum expression of the Arinto, widely regarded as Portugal's finest white grape variety and has a smaller Verdelho component.
This stunning and aromatic white wine from the mountainous Alentejo region of Portugal embodies a year of elegance, with the acidity and aromatic exuberance expected from a cooler year. There are lots of lemon zest and stone character with some fresh herbs such as lemongrass and a touch of flint character. Well-integrated barrel and bottle aging offers honeysuckle, soft butterscotch notes and a delicate touch of vanilla.
On the palate, the fruit is crisp and focused with succulent citrusy notes, white plum and peach, as well as some vanilla and wild white flowers in the background. The medium-to-full-body offers a lovely weight with a layered and creamy texture. A delightful Portuguese white that could rival a white Burgundy that is only going to improve with age. Pair with fish cakes, poultry dishes and anything with a creamy sauce.
"Nutty nose with interesting aromas of cardamom, melon, sage and verbena herbs. Creamy on the palate, with a lively acidity." 93/100 Points, Decanter (June 2023 Points)
"Lots of lemon zest and stone character with some fresh herbs such as lemongrass. Medium to full body. Layered and creamy. Dried white peach. Lots of dried citrus. A blend of arinto and verdelho. Drink or hold." 93/100 Points, James Suckling (Apr 2023)