Eremitas "Amon de Kelia" Branco '19

Mateus is the fifth generation of the Nicolau de Almeida family to produce wine in the Douro. Together with his wife, Teresa Ameztoy, they make three sets of wines, each based on organic and biodynamic farming: Trans Douro Express, seeking to show the climatic characteristics of each subregion of the Douro—Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo, and Douro Superior; Curral Teles, the result of different vinification techniques; and finally, Eremitas, white wines made with the same variety but from parcels with different soils, one of which is featured in this month’s wine club. 

The 2019 Eremitas “Amon de Kelia” is made from 100% Rabigato, a white grape native to Portugal. The vines are planted in moderately deep quartz soils at an altitude of 500 meters above sea level. The grapes are macerated in a calcatórium (granite basin) for about three hours, and the must is then pressed and racked by gravity in cement tanks, where it ferments spontaneously for 12 months. 

“Amon de Kelia” shows aromas of pear and peach, and a hint of tropical fruit. The palate has a soft texture and ripe flavors of white and tropical fruits. Though on the rounder side, the wine still a pleasant streak of acidity and minerality to keep it balanced. This is a fantastic medium-bodied white that would pair perfectly with a classic Portuguese dish such as Bacalhau à Brás, or salt cod with potatoes and eggs.