Xisto Ilimitado Branco 2021 (Luis Seabra)

Enjoy it now, or cellar for a few years. No need to decant before serving. A stunning golden lemon colour in the glass, this Portuguese white wine brings something very different to the table. It is a field blend of native Douro grapes: 50% Rabigato, 20% Codega, 15% Gouveio, 10% Viosinho, and in classic Portuguese style, a mysterious assortment of grapes make up the final 5%. Luis Seabra has been involved in wine-making for two decades, from working as a soil researcher in Vinho Verde to starting a winery of his own in 2013. He takes an extremely "down to earth" approach to wine, farming a modest 8 hectares and only utilising pesticides unless the overall health of his vineyards is at stake. Luis Seabra’s land spans three famous Portuguese regions: Vinho Verde, Dao and the origin of this intriguing white, Douro. It opens with a bouquet of stone fruits, green herbs, honey and sweet, subtle spice. The grapes were plucked from vines ranging between 30-60 years old, before being aged in French oak for 7 months on the lees. Full malolactic fermentation has given the wine a delicious honeyed texture. On the palate, you can discover pure notes of pear and lemon peel, wet stone minerality and juicy hints of ripe peach. Consider pairing this Douro Branco with white fish, soft cheese or a selection of olives.