2023 Wine & Soul Quinta da Manoella Red

Wine & Soul was founded in 2001 by Sandra Tavares da Silva (Quinta do Vale D. Maria and Quinta de Chocapalha) and her husband Jorge Borges (then Niepoort, now Passadouro). The name Wine & Soul was chosen because the winemakers pour their heart and soul into making wines that symbolize their lives. They purchased a 2-hectare vineyard with very old vines in Vale de Mendiz next to Quinta do Noval. From the very first harvest, the couple became icons of the Douro and are praised nationally and internationally for the charm and character of their wines, which represent the unique terroir of the Douro region. In 2009, the couple inherited Quinta da Manoella, a fantastic estate consisting primarily of very old, south-facing vineyards.

The Quinta da Manoella Red is a magnificent blend of 60% Touriga Nacional, 25% Touriga Franca, 10% Tinta Roriz, and 5% Tinta Francisca from vines at least 40 years old that grow low to the ground like bushvines. As soon as the grapes are perfectly ripe, it is time to harvest. The grapes are selected and then traditionally crushed with the feet in lagares (large concrete vats). Crushing the grapes with the feet maximizes color and reduces astringent tannins in the final wine, as this method minimizes the crushing of grape seeds that release these harsh tannins. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by 16 months in used French oak barrels.

The result of this process is a beautiful example of what the Douro has to offer. The Quinta da Manoella Red presents a complex nose with intense black fruit, cassis, plums, dried herbs, and an earthy undertone. On the palate, concentrated cherries, slightly spicy, lively, elegant, and a very pleasant, long finish with lovely, smooth tannins. A great wine to drink with red meat dishes, lamb, and charcuterie, or to keep in the cellar for a few more years.