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DIÁRIO DE VINDIMAS
2023
The flood
Winter and spring had above-average rainfall levels, creating water reserves in the soil for much of the growing season, although some signs of water deficit were still recorded at the end of the cycle. However, it was the large temperature variation in the summer that most marked the wine-growing year, with some of the highest and lowest temperatures recorded simultaneously for this period. This led to very different levels of ripening depending on the variety and the plot. The difficulty in ripening some varieties was overcome with the rain at the end of September. Managing the harvest dates was therefore essential, allowing for freshness, elegance but also solid structures, aromatic depth and great quality potential.
Winter and spring had above-average rainfall levels, creating water reserves in the soil for much of the growing season, although some signs of water deficit were still recorded at the end of the cycle. However, it was the large temperature variation in the summer that most marked the wine-growing year, with some of the highest and lowest temperatures recorded simultaneously for this period. This led to very different levels of ripening depending on the variety and the plot. The difficulty in ripening some varieties was overcome with the rain at the end of September. Managing the harvest dates was therefore essential, allowing for freshness, elegance but also solid structures, aromatic depth and great quality potential.
2022
Hot and dry
A hot year marked by extreme drought, with less than half the normal rainfall, making it the driest year since records began in the region. The amount of rain was affected, but on the other hand, disease pressure was naturally low, resulting in grapes in perfect health. The drought brought some progress in ripening but also some heterogeneity, with some varieties suffering and others showing additional potential to face the climatic challenges. The final help literally fell from the sky, with a generous rain on September 13th which, with the appropriate interval, rebalanced the composition of the berries and allowed for recovery and regular ripening. The result was extremely elegant wines with great fruit purity.
A hot year marked by extreme drought, with less than half the normal rainfall, making it the driest year since records began in the region. The amount of rain was affected, but on the other hand, disease pressure was naturally low, resulting in grapes in perfect health. The drought brought some progress in ripening but also some heterogeneity, with some varieties suffering and others showing additional potential to face the climatic challenges. The final help literally fell from the sky, with a generous rain on September 13th which, with the appropriate interval, rebalanced the composition of the berries and allowed for recovery and regular ripening. The result was extremely elegant wines with great fruit purity.
2021
High expectations
The harvest began with very high expectations given the year's climate - a rainy spring, followed by a mild summer, interrupted by a heat wave in mid-August... very similar to what happened in the iconic 2011, seeming to live up to the theory of "10-year cycles". However, no two years are the same and the beginning of September brought some climate instability, putting pressure on the harvest. Fortunately, most of these were false alarms, but it naturally led to some restlessness and anxiety. The vines still responded very well, with generally slower/longer ripening, resulting in musts with great balance and solid structures, vibrant fruit, great aromatic definition, varietal purity and freshness. A profile that is undoubtedly "more in style than in strength", with an emphasis on elegance, high average quality and already with several very special peaks of quality revealing themselves.
The harvest began with very high expectations given the year's climate - a rainy spring, followed by a mild summer, interrupted by a heat wave in mid-August... very similar to what happened in the iconic 2011, seeming to live up to the theory of "10-year cycles". However, no two years are the same and the beginning of September brought some climate instability, putting pressure on the harvest. Fortunately, most of these were false alarms, but it naturally led to some restlessness and anxiety. The vines still responded very well, with generally slower/longer ripening, resulting in musts with great balance and solid structures, vibrant fruit, great aromatic definition, varietal purity and freshness. A profile that is undoubtedly "more in style than in strength", with an emphasis on elegance, high average quality and already with several very special peaks of quality revealing themselves.
2020
A unique year
2020 will probably be the most challenging year our generation has ever experienced. The year was generally warm from the start, leading to significant progress right from bud break. The rainy spring led to a great deal of mildew, which also affected flowering, with consequent losses in a production that was not very generous from the start. The modest quantitative forecasts for the year were further aggravated by the sunburn that occurred from 22 to 24 June. The water reserves accumulated in the spring, however, allowed for good progress in ripening. The arrival of the last third of August marked a sharp turning point - after a rain on 20 August, apparently welcome to counter the summer heat and help finish ripening... a galloping dehydration of the berries quickly began to occur in several vineyards, particularly in the lower elevations of the region. The result... the quantity suffered a dramatic drop, exceeding 50% in several vineyards. But Nature took away on one hand and gave on the other - the quality is truly exceptional! The concentration and intensity were such that at first analysis some questions were raised. But the musts quickly revealed an absolutely extraordinary and captivating character and potential! The concentration was immense but proportional in all the components of the grapes - sugars, aromas, phenolic compounds, acidity... everything (!), ensuring intensity but also a remarkable balance.
A unique year!
2020 will probably be the most challenging year our generation has ever experienced. The year was generally warm from the start, leading to significant progress right from bud break. The rainy spring led to a great deal of mildew, which also affected flowering, with consequent losses in a production that was not very generous from the start. The modest quantitative forecasts for the year were further aggravated by the sunburn that occurred from 22 to 24 June. The water reserves accumulated in the spring, however, allowed for good progress in ripening. The arrival of the last third of August marked a sharp turning point - after a rain on 20 August, apparently welcome to counter the summer heat and help finish ripening... a galloping dehydration of the berries quickly began to occur in several vineyards, particularly in the lower elevations of the region. The result... the quantity suffered a dramatic drop, exceeding 50% in several vineyards. But Nature took away on one hand and gave on the other - the quality is truly exceptional! The concentration and intensity were such that at first analysis some questions were raised. But the musts quickly revealed an absolutely extraordinary and captivating character and potential! The concentration was immense but proportional in all the components of the grapes - sugars, aromas, phenolic compounds, acidity... everything (!), ensuring intensity but also a remarkable balance.
A unique year!
2019
Big swings
In a generally dry year (although not as dry as 2017 or 2015), it was rather the large fluctuations in temperatures that marked it most - from the beginning, temperatures successively went from above to below average, with a natural reflection on the vineyard cycle which, despite the initial advance, subsequently slowed down. The different grape varieties naturally dealt with these variations in a different way, with some initial heterogeneity in maturation requiring strict monitoring and a redefinition of the harvest calendar. The effort soon bore fruit - along with excellent overall phytosanitary status, knowing how to wait and respect the timing of different grape varieties and different vineyards in light of the year's conditions allowed us to progressively refine their character and final quality. Wines with depth, solid structures, somewhat closed and austere at the outset but with great character, complexity and fantastic balance. Cellaring wines for which, as happened in the vineyard, it will also be necessary to know how to wait... but with everything for a great evolution in the bottle.
In a generally dry year (although not as dry as 2017 or 2015), it was rather the large fluctuations in temperatures that marked it most - from the beginning, temperatures successively went from above to below average, with a natural reflection on the vineyard cycle which, despite the initial advance, subsequently slowed down. The different grape varieties naturally dealt with these variations in a different way, with some initial heterogeneity in maturation requiring strict monitoring and a redefinition of the harvest calendar. The effort soon bore fruit - along with excellent overall phytosanitary status, knowing how to wait and respect the timing of different grape varieties and different vineyards in light of the year's conditions allowed us to progressively refine their character and final quality. Wines with depth, solid structures, somewhat closed and austere at the outset but with great character, complexity and fantastic balance. Cellaring wines for which, as happened in the vineyard, it will also be necessary to know how to wait... but with everything for a great evolution in the bottle.
2018
A happy ending
In a generally dry year (although not as dry as 2017 or 2015), it was rather the large fluctuations in temperatures that marked it most - from the beginning, temperatures successively went from above to below average, with a natural reflection on the vineyard cycle which, despite the initial advance, subsequently slowed down. The different grape varieties naturally dealt with these variations in a different way, with some initial heterogeneity in maturation requiring strict monitoring and a redefinition of the harvest calendar. The effort soon bore fruit - along with excellent overall phytosanitary status, knowing how to wait and respect the timing of different grape varieties and different vineyards in light of the year's conditions allowed us to progressively refine their character and final quality. Wines with depth, solid structures, somewhat closed and austere at the outset but with great character, complexity and fantastic balance. Cellaring wines for which, as happened in the vineyard, it will also be necessary to know how to wait... but with everything for a great evolution in the bottle.
In a generally dry year (although not as dry as 2017 or 2015), it was rather the large fluctuations in temperatures that marked it most - from the beginning, temperatures successively went from above to below average, with a natural reflection on the vineyard cycle which, despite the initial advance, subsequently slowed down. The different grape varieties naturally dealt with these variations in a different way, with some initial heterogeneity in maturation requiring strict monitoring and a redefinition of the harvest calendar. The effort soon bore fruit - along with excellent overall phytosanitary status, knowing how to wait and respect the timing of different grape varieties and different vineyards in light of the year's conditions allowed us to progressively refine their character and final quality. Wines with depth, solid structures, somewhat closed and austere at the outset but with great character, complexity and fantastic balance. Cellaring wines for which, as happened in the vineyard, it will also be necessary to know how to wait... but with everything for a great evolution in the bottle.
2017
Seco mas marcante
2017 ficou desde logo na história como um dos anos mais secos desde que há registos, com a precipitação total a cair para quase metade do que seria normal. As temperaturas diurnas foram também em geral elevadas, registando-se ondas de calor em Junho, Julho e Agosto. Este cenário extremo foi de alguma forma apaziguado por noites relativamente frescas, permitindo alguma recuperação das videiras e uma progressão constante da maturação. Resultou uma das mais precoces vindimas de sempre, com início a 22 de Agosto e um avanço de cerca de 20 dias em várias vinhas. Um pequeno chuvisco nos últimos dias de Agosto e o baixar da temperatura em Setembro permitiu um final de maturação mais suave e sem sobressaltos, com as uvas a apresentarem um estado sanitário fantástico. E se algumas dúvidas pudessem existir no início face a tamanha precocidade... estas foram imediatamente dissipadas com a entrada das primeiras uvas na adega. Concentração, mas sem desequilíbrios. Grande intensidade de fruta, mas com profundidade e estruturas sólidas. Um pleno em todas as cores e feitios - brancos, rosados, tintos, Portos... tudo a revelar um altíssimo potencial, prometendo ficar na história não apenas pela pouca chuva ou pela precocidade mas sobretudo pelos seus.
2017 ficou desde logo na história como um dos anos mais secos desde que há registos, com a precipitação total a cair para quase metade do que seria normal. As temperaturas diurnas foram também em geral elevadas, registando-se ondas de calor em Junho, Julho e Agosto. Este cenário extremo foi de alguma forma apaziguado por noites relativamente frescas, permitindo alguma recuperação das videiras e uma progressão constante da maturação. Resultou uma das mais precoces vindimas de sempre, com início a 22 de Agosto e um avanço de cerca de 20 dias em várias vinhas. Um pequeno chuvisco nos últimos dias de Agosto e o baixar da temperatura em Setembro permitiu um final de maturação mais suave e sem sobressaltos, com as uvas a apresentarem um estado sanitário fantástico. E se algumas dúvidas pudessem existir no início face a tamanha precocidade... estas foram imediatamente dissipadas com a entrada das primeiras uvas na adega. Concentração, mas sem desequilíbrios. Grande intensidade de fruta, mas com profundidade e estruturas sólidas. Um pleno em todas as cores e feitios - brancos, rosados, tintos, Portos... tudo a revelar um altíssimo potencial, prometendo ficar na história não apenas pela pouca chuva ou pela precocidade mas sobretudo pelos seus.
2016
Very high potential
Winter precipitation was delayed but ended up arriving abundantly in January and February. Spring remained equally rainy but mild in terms of temperatures, causing some deviations in the level of flowering and triggering a high pressure of phytosanitary diseases, especially downy mildew. Consequently, there was a significant drop in the quantity produced. But that same precipitation ended up creating important water reserves, making it possible to cope with the high temperatures of June and August. With the arrival of September, the sharp drop in night temperatures allowed for an end to ripening with ideal conditions and a harvest in excellent health. The result was one of the most balanced maturations ever, with practically perfect synchronization of the evolution of sugars, acids, phenolic compounds and aromas. The summer heat ended up not showing itself in this way in the wines, with regular water availability throughout practically the entire cycle and the milder end of maturation dictating the tone – wines full of freshness and great balance. The purity of the fruit, the solid structure and the profound elegance make 2016 a year of extremely high potential for Douro and Porto wines from the Alves de Sousa family.
Winter precipitation was delayed but ended up arriving abundantly in January and February. Spring remained equally rainy but mild in terms of temperatures, causing some deviations in the level of flowering and triggering a high pressure of phytosanitary diseases, especially downy mildew. Consequently, there was a significant drop in the quantity produced. But that same precipitation ended up creating important water reserves, making it possible to cope with the high temperatures of June and August. With the arrival of September, the sharp drop in night temperatures allowed for an end to ripening with ideal conditions and a harvest in excellent health. The result was one of the most balanced maturations ever, with practically perfect synchronization of the evolution of sugars, acids, phenolic compounds and aromas. The summer heat ended up not showing itself in this way in the wines, with regular water availability throughout practically the entire cycle and the milder end of maturation dictating the tone – wines full of freshness and great balance. The purity of the fruit, the solid structure and the profound elegance make 2016 a year of extremely high potential for Douro and Porto wines from the Alves de Sousa family.
2015
Generosity in quality and quantity
A particularly cold and dry winter was followed by an equally dry summer. Water deficit levels were among the most severe on record and temperatures were also high, with several heat waves between April and July, resulting in an advance of almost 10 days in the vineyard cycle. Only in August did the temperatures ease, even dropping below average, eventually allowing for much smoother maturation than one would expect. Such conditions also allowed for an exemplary health status, with preservation not only of quality but also of the quantity produced. It resulted in a unique year on all levels, generous in quantity, but above all in quality – overall one of the highest in memory and revealing peaks of quality full of character, solid structures, depth and above all a fantastic balance between all its components. And it will be difficult not to find a curious historical and perhaps cyclical parallel – 2015 was one of the driest years, only comparable to… 2005. The harvest started earlier than ever, just like… 1995. Superstitions aside, it is impossible to remain indifferent to the similarities between 2015, 2005 and 1995. And if the exceptional quality of 2005 and 1995 is all too evident in their fantastic evolution over the last 10 and 20 years, the high expectations for 2015 are not only natural but also easily become certainties – 2015 is one of the best years ever for Douro and Port wines from the Alves de Sousa family.
A particularly cold and dry winter was followed by an equally dry summer. Water deficit levels were among the most severe on record and temperatures were also high, with several heat waves between April and July, resulting in an advance of almost 10 days in the vineyard cycle. Only in August did the temperatures ease, even dropping below average, eventually allowing for much smoother maturation than one would expect. Such conditions also allowed for an exemplary health status, with preservation not only of quality but also of the quantity produced. It resulted in a unique year on all levels, generous in quantity, but above all in quality – overall one of the highest in memory and revealing peaks of quality full of character, solid structures, depth and above all a fantastic balance between all its components. And it will be difficult not to find a curious historical and perhaps cyclical parallel – 2015 was one of the driest years, only comparable to… 2005. The harvest started earlier than ever, just like… 1995. Superstitions aside, it is impossible to remain indifferent to the similarities between 2015, 2005 and 1995. And if the exceptional quality of 2005 and 1995 is all too evident in their fantastic evolution over the last 10 and 20 years, the high expectations for 2015 are not only natural but also easily become certainties – 2015 is one of the best years ever for Douro and Port wines from the Alves de Sousa family.
2014
Fruit and freshness
The winter was one of the wettest in the last 30 years. Spring was also rainy but with temperatures somewhat above normal. This led to an anticipation of flowering which ended up occurring when there was a sudden drop in temperature, causing a drop in yield. In phytosanitary terms, both downy mildew and powdery mildew were particularly present, requiring increased attention in their control. The summer was climatically somewhat unstable – it started hot but July and August were mild (20-25ºC with some showers). Only after August 13th did temperatures rise to 30ºC but the nights remained cool (9-13ºC). Ripening developed smoothly, preserving the varietal aromas and the natural freshness of the berries. The forecast of rain in September led to the definition of rigorous harvest planning. This plan was combined with a rigorous selection of the quality of the grapes harvested. The result was wines full of fruit, great freshness and with some very special qualitative highlights in some of the best vineyards of the Alves de Sousa family.
The winter was one of the wettest in the last 30 years. Spring was also rainy but with temperatures somewhat above normal. This led to an anticipation of flowering which ended up occurring when there was a sudden drop in temperature, causing a drop in yield. In phytosanitary terms, both downy mildew and powdery mildew were particularly present, requiring increased attention in their control. The summer was climatically somewhat unstable – it started hot but July and August were mild (20-25ºC with some showers). Only after August 13th did temperatures rise to 30ºC but the nights remained cool (9-13ºC). Ripening developed smoothly, preserving the varietal aromas and the natural freshness of the berries. The forecast of rain in September led to the definition of rigorous harvest planning. This plan was combined with a rigorous selection of the quality of the grapes harvested. The result was wines full of fruit, great freshness and with some very special qualitative highlights in some of the best vineyards of the Alves de Sousa family.
2013
Elegância e profundidade
O Inverno e a Primavera tiveram níveis de precipitação acima da média, criando reservas de água no solo para grande parte da estação de crescimento, embora no final do ciclo se tenham ainda assim registado alguns indícios de défice hídrico. Contudo foi a grande variação de temperatura no Verão que mais marcou o ano vitícola, tendo-se registado simultaneamente algumas das temperaturas mais altas como das mais baixas para este período. Tal conduziu a níveis de maturação bastante diferenciados em função da casta e da parcela. A dificuldade de maturação de algumas castas foi ultrapassada com a ocorrência de chuva de final de Setembro. A gestão das datas de colheita foi assim fundamental, tendo permitido no final obter frescura, elegância, mas também estruturas sólidas, profundidade aromática e um grande potencial qualitativo.
O Inverno e a Primavera tiveram níveis de precipitação acima da média, criando reservas de água no solo para grande parte da estação de crescimento, embora no final do ciclo se tenham ainda assim registado alguns indícios de défice hídrico. Contudo foi a grande variação de temperatura no Verão que mais marcou o ano vitícola, tendo-se registado simultaneamente algumas das temperaturas mais altas como das mais baixas para este período. Tal conduziu a níveis de maturação bastante diferenciados em função da casta e da parcela. A dificuldade de maturação de algumas castas foi ultrapassada com a ocorrência de chuva de final de Setembro. A gestão das datas de colheita foi assim fundamental, tendo permitido no final obter frescura, elegância, mas também estruturas sólidas, profundidade aromática e um grande potencial qualitativo.
2012
Fertility problems
2012 had an extremely dry start, with the first real rains only occurring close to flowering, resulting in some fertility problems (desavinho and bagoinha) especially in the most sensitive varieties. This was reflected in a drop in the quantity produced in several installments. Fortunately, a rainier spring than usual still managed to restore water levels for the rest of the cycle, thus allowing the grapes to ripen well. When the harvest arrived, the conditions met in terms of quality were as desired – perfect health status and great balance in the composition of the grapes. The average quality of the year proved to be very high, resulting in wines full of balance and freshness.
2012 had an extremely dry start, with the first real rains only occurring close to flowering, resulting in some fertility problems (desavinho and bagoinha) especially in the most sensitive varieties. This was reflected in a drop in the quantity produced in several installments. Fortunately, a rainier spring than usual still managed to restore water levels for the rest of the cycle, thus allowing the grapes to ripen well. When the harvest arrived, the conditions met in terms of quality were as desired – perfect health status and great balance in the composition of the grapes. The average quality of the year proved to be very high, resulting in wines full of balance and freshness.
2011
Paciência e ponderação
2011 cedo deu os primeiros indícios de que poderia trazer uma colheita generosa, face aos cachos nascidos. Contudo, uma Primavera particularmente húmida levou a uma das maiores pressões de míldio de que há memória na região do Douro, comprometendo seriamente a colheita. A estratégia de ação adotada nas vinhas, apesar de dispendiosa, revelou-se bem-sucedida e na realidade extremamente recompensadora – não apenas foi possível assegurar uma produção generosa para os padrões da região como a qualidade viria a revelar-se ao mais alto nível. O Verão não trouxe o calor e aridez típicos, antes temperaturas mais amenas que o habitual, permitindo uma maturação suave e progressiva, preservando a acidez natural e os aromas varietais nos bagos. A chegada de algum calor apenas no final do ciclo permitiu refinar a composição dos bagos em termos fenólicos. Se aliarmos a isto uma vindima sem sobressaltos e total ausência de chuvas, permitindo uma gestão atempada da colheita das várias parcelas e castas, com a paciência e ponderação necessárias (mas nem sempre possíveis), temos todos os ingredientes para um grande ano. Fruta fresca vibrante, mas com uma grande profundidade, complexidade aromática e sólida estrutura, preconizando uma qualidade excecional e grande capacidade de guarda.
2011 cedo deu os primeiros indícios de que poderia trazer uma colheita generosa, face aos cachos nascidos. Contudo, uma Primavera particularmente húmida levou a uma das maiores pressões de míldio de que há memória na região do Douro, comprometendo seriamente a colheita. A estratégia de ação adotada nas vinhas, apesar de dispendiosa, revelou-se bem-sucedida e na realidade extremamente recompensadora – não apenas foi possível assegurar uma produção generosa para os padrões da região como a qualidade viria a revelar-se ao mais alto nível. O Verão não trouxe o calor e aridez típicos, antes temperaturas mais amenas que o habitual, permitindo uma maturação suave e progressiva, preservando a acidez natural e os aromas varietais nos bagos. A chegada de algum calor apenas no final do ciclo permitiu refinar a composição dos bagos em termos fenólicos. Se aliarmos a isto uma vindima sem sobressaltos e total ausência de chuvas, permitindo uma gestão atempada da colheita das várias parcelas e castas, com a paciência e ponderação necessárias (mas nem sempre possíveis), temos todos os ingredientes para um grande ano. Fruta fresca vibrante, mas com uma grande profundidade, complexidade aromática e sólida estrutura, preconizando uma qualidade excecional e grande capacidade de guarda.
2010
Austere and reserved profile
Após uma sequência de anos atípicos (2007, 2008, 2009), em 2010 regressaram as características que sempre associamos ao Douro: chuvas concentradas maioritariamente no período de Inverno, uma Primavera amena e um Verão muito quente. Foi sem dúvida um ano em que houve necessidade de particular atenção às questões fitossanitárias, com alguma incidência de oídio e míldio, ultrapassáveis, contudo com uma estratégia de ação preventiva. Em termos de produção, as quantidades estiveram acima dos valores muito baixos dos últimos anos, embora ainda assim sem excessos, verificando-se um equilíbrio muito bom entre a produção e a estrutura vegetativa robusta que resultou das reservas de água no solo acumuladas durante o Inverno. Mesmo na fase final da maturação as folhas permaneceram bastante verdes e ativas, permitindo uma maturação bastante suave, sem sobressaltos ou variações bruscas. A estratégia de vindima foi contudo, mais que nunca, fundamental para atingir os melhores resultados. Tendo-se verificado um ciclo mais longo que nos últimos 3 anos, houve que ter a devida paciência (nem sempre fácil em tempos de vindima) e aguardar, analisando caso a caso, as castas, as vinhas, na procura de uma boa maturação. Resultaram mostos muito equilibrados, com boa preservação dos aromas varietais e da acidez. Numa primeira análise dos vinhos, existe ainda muito trabalho pela frente, algumas arestas a limar. Mas o potencial existe e é elevado. O perfil austero e reservado, as estruturas sólidas, a profundidade, a fruta franca é ainda demasiado cedo para analisar em pormenor a qualidade da vindima. Mas o futuro revela-se francamente promissor.
Após uma sequência de anos atípicos (2007, 2008, 2009), em 2010 regressaram as características que sempre associamos ao Douro: chuvas concentradas maioritariamente no período de Inverno, uma Primavera amena e um Verão muito quente. Foi sem dúvida um ano em que houve necessidade de particular atenção às questões fitossanitárias, com alguma incidência de oídio e míldio, ultrapassáveis, contudo com uma estratégia de ação preventiva. Em termos de produção, as quantidades estiveram acima dos valores muito baixos dos últimos anos, embora ainda assim sem excessos, verificando-se um equilíbrio muito bom entre a produção e a estrutura vegetativa robusta que resultou das reservas de água no solo acumuladas durante o Inverno. Mesmo na fase final da maturação as folhas permaneceram bastante verdes e ativas, permitindo uma maturação bastante suave, sem sobressaltos ou variações bruscas. A estratégia de vindima foi contudo, mais que nunca, fundamental para atingir os melhores resultados. Tendo-se verificado um ciclo mais longo que nos últimos 3 anos, houve que ter a devida paciência (nem sempre fácil em tempos de vindima) e aguardar, analisando caso a caso, as castas, as vinhas, na procura de uma boa maturação. Resultaram mostos muito equilibrados, com boa preservação dos aromas varietais e da acidez. Numa primeira análise dos vinhos, existe ainda muito trabalho pela frente, algumas arestas a limar. Mas o potencial existe e é elevado. O perfil austero e reservado, as estruturas sólidas, a profundidade, a fruta franca é ainda demasiado cedo para analisar em pormenor a qualidade da vindima. Mas o futuro revela-se francamente promissor.
2009
O melhor de dois mundos
O Inverno e a Primavera foram em geral menos chuvosos e com temperaturas ligeiramente mais altas do que o normal. Uma vaga de frio surgiu a meio de Maio, o que, aliado a alguma precipitação afetou a Floração, levando a uma quebra significativa na produção. Sanitariamente, face a estas condições climáticas, foi um ano relativamente sereno. Chegada a época estival, após uma sequência de anos anormalmente frescos para a região, seria de esperar o retorno do tradicional calor duriense. Bom… sim e não. Até meados de Agosto, apenas Primavera. Parecia que as atípicas condições de 2007 e 2008 estavam cada vez mais típicas. Eis que dois picos súbitos de calor mudam totalmente as regras: um primeiro, a meio de Agosto, provoca uma aceleração da Maturação, levando ao iniciar de vindimas mais cedo de que há memória. Um segundo, na primeira semana de Setembro, impõe uma concentração dos compostos nobres (aromas, polifenóis) formados quando as temperaturas eram ainda amenas. O peso dos cachos ressentiu-se. Os açúcares dos bagos subiram um pouco mais do que é costume. Mas a frescura aromática e o equilíbrio com a acidez são impressionantes. Ainda mais quando aliada a uma complexidade aromática, profundidade, concentração e definição invulgares numa fase tão precoce. Consegue aliar o melhor de dois mundos, com estruturas vigorosas e precisas, mas com uma delicadeza e profundidade desconcertantes e magníficas. Um ano para ficar na História.
O Inverno e a Primavera foram em geral menos chuvosos e com temperaturas ligeiramente mais altas do que o normal. Uma vaga de frio surgiu a meio de Maio, o que, aliado a alguma precipitação afetou a Floração, levando a uma quebra significativa na produção. Sanitariamente, face a estas condições climáticas, foi um ano relativamente sereno. Chegada a época estival, após uma sequência de anos anormalmente frescos para a região, seria de esperar o retorno do tradicional calor duriense. Bom… sim e não. Até meados de Agosto, apenas Primavera. Parecia que as atípicas condições de 2007 e 2008 estavam cada vez mais típicas. Eis que dois picos súbitos de calor mudam totalmente as regras: um primeiro, a meio de Agosto, provoca uma aceleração da Maturação, levando ao iniciar de vindimas mais cedo de que há memória. Um segundo, na primeira semana de Setembro, impõe uma concentração dos compostos nobres (aromas, polifenóis) formados quando as temperaturas eram ainda amenas. O peso dos cachos ressentiu-se. Os açúcares dos bagos subiram um pouco mais do que é costume. Mas a frescura aromática e o equilíbrio com a acidez são impressionantes. Ainda mais quando aliada a uma complexidade aromática, profundidade, concentração e definição invulgares numa fase tão precoce. Consegue aliar o melhor de dois mundos, com estruturas vigorosas e precisas, mas com uma delicadeza e profundidade desconcertantes e magníficas. Um ano para ficar na História.
2008
Déjá vu
Alguma precipitação aquando da Floração induziu a um forte desavinho, com particular incidência em castas como a Touriga Nacional levando a uma quebra significativa na produção da maioria das parcelas. A uma Primavera mais quente que o costume sucede-se… uma prologada amena Primavera. Numa espécie de “déjà vu” das invulgares condições de 2007, em 2008 a maturação ocorreu sobre temperaturas amenas e água q.b. no solo, conduzindo a uma acidez acima do normal, sem qualquer tipo de sobre-maturação, antes com fruta fresca vibrante, mas com uma grande profundidade e sólida estrutura. O inegável paralelismo climático entre a maturação dos dois últimos anos traduziu-se, como seria de esperar, em perfis qualitativos igualmente próximos. O que encontramos agora nos 2008 é em tudo semelhante ao que figurava em igual fase nos 2007. E se em 2007, embora muito promissores, era difícil numa fase precoce avançar com um olhar definitivo e uma conclusão acerca dos resultados de um ano tão invulgar... os ensinamentos desse ano e o patamar de qualidade que os 2007 vieram a revelar, preconizam um futuro igualmente extraordinário para 2008.
Alguma precipitação aquando da Floração induziu a um forte desavinho, com particular incidência em castas como a Touriga Nacional levando a uma quebra significativa na produção da maioria das parcelas. A uma Primavera mais quente que o costume sucede-se… uma prologada amena Primavera. Numa espécie de “déjà vu” das invulgares condições de 2007, em 2008 a maturação ocorreu sobre temperaturas amenas e água q.b. no solo, conduzindo a uma acidez acima do normal, sem qualquer tipo de sobre-maturação, antes com fruta fresca vibrante, mas com uma grande profundidade e sólida estrutura. O inegável paralelismo climático entre a maturação dos dois últimos anos traduziu-se, como seria de esperar, em perfis qualitativos igualmente próximos. O que encontramos agora nos 2008 é em tudo semelhante ao que figurava em igual fase nos 2007. E se em 2007, embora muito promissores, era difícil numa fase precoce avançar com um olhar definitivo e uma conclusão acerca dos resultados de um ano tão invulgar... os ensinamentos desse ano e o patamar de qualidade que os 2007 vieram a revelar, preconizam um futuro igualmente extraordinário para 2008.
2007
Os caprichos das videiras
As temperaturas médias durante Junho, Julho, Agosto raramente passaram os 20ºc e houve uma distribuição da precipitação ao longo de praticamente todo o ciclo formando um conjunto de condições que encaixam perfeitamente com o ideal de qualquer manual de fisiologia vegetal. Mas as videiras têm os seus caprichos. E já os manuais de viticultura e a realidade têm demonstrado que a videira necessita em certo grau de algum stress durante a fase final de maturação. 2007 torna-se assim paradigmático, por um lado, mas por outro, fascinante e fundamental para a viticultura do futuro. Não existe de facto uma experiência consolidada com um ano assim. No entanto, nesta fase, os vinhos apresentam um potencial ao nível do melhor que alguma vez se conseguiu, comparável com os extremos (e mesmo antagónicos) 2003 e 2005. Maturações fantásticas, cores profundas, vinhos com uma estrutura mais que sólida, grande concentração… mas sempre com uma frescura apaziguadora. 2007 fica para já na história como um ano para estudar profundamente. A elasticidade da vinha face a condições tão diferentes como as de 2003, 2005 e 2007 é espantosa e contribui significativamente para quebrar alguns tabus e ideias estabelecidas. Claro que é impossível numa fase tão precoce avançar com uma conclusão definitiva acerca dos resultados do ano. Mas o futuro… é extraordinariamente promissor e ambicioso!
As temperaturas médias durante Junho, Julho, Agosto raramente passaram os 20ºc e houve uma distribuição da precipitação ao longo de praticamente todo o ciclo formando um conjunto de condições que encaixam perfeitamente com o ideal de qualquer manual de fisiologia vegetal. Mas as videiras têm os seus caprichos. E já os manuais de viticultura e a realidade têm demonstrado que a videira necessita em certo grau de algum stress durante a fase final de maturação. 2007 torna-se assim paradigmático, por um lado, mas por outro, fascinante e fundamental para a viticultura do futuro. Não existe de facto uma experiência consolidada com um ano assim. No entanto, nesta fase, os vinhos apresentam um potencial ao nível do melhor que alguma vez se conseguiu, comparável com os extremos (e mesmo antagónicos) 2003 e 2005. Maturações fantásticas, cores profundas, vinhos com uma estrutura mais que sólida, grande concentração… mas sempre com uma frescura apaziguadora. 2007 fica para já na história como um ano para estudar profundamente. A elasticidade da vinha face a condições tão diferentes como as de 2003, 2005 e 2007 é espantosa e contribui significativamente para quebrar alguns tabus e ideias estabelecidas. Claro que é impossível numa fase tão precoce avançar com uma conclusão definitiva acerca dos resultados do ano. Mas o futuro… é extraordinariamente promissor e ambicioso!
2006
Laborious, complex... but rewarding
After one of the driest years ever (2005), 2006 seemed much “milder” in climate terms. The rain that occurred during the growing season was sufficient to maintain the vines with a healthy and active canopy, allowing for good maturation. Even so, the consequences of the very dry year of 2005 were still present, leading to a significant decrease in the number of bunches in 2006. A few drops of rain in early September were welcome to aid final ripeness and quality, balancing the composition of the berries. With a second announcement of rain, at this stage not so desired, it was necessary to act actively. Thanks to useful weather forecasting tools, we were able to harvest the most important vineyards in a short space of time, thus avoiding any harmful effects of rain. It made us test all our physical and logistical resources and it took a good deal of engineering and hard work to achieve it. But it was worth it. Quality was undoubtedly valued. And even after the rains, it was impressive to observe the resistance of the few remaining grapes. This well expresses the constant care for our vineyards and wine-growing practices throughout the year. It was indeed a difficult and complex year. But it will certainly be even more rewarding.
After one of the driest years ever (2005), 2006 seemed much “milder” in climate terms. The rain that occurred during the growing season was sufficient to maintain the vines with a healthy and active canopy, allowing for good maturation. Even so, the consequences of the very dry year of 2005 were still present, leading to a significant decrease in the number of bunches in 2006. A few drops of rain in early September were welcome to aid final ripeness and quality, balancing the composition of the berries. With a second announcement of rain, at this stage not so desired, it was necessary to act actively. Thanks to useful weather forecasting tools, we were able to harvest the most important vineyards in a short space of time, thus avoiding any harmful effects of rain. It made us test all our physical and logistical resources and it took a good deal of engineering and hard work to achieve it. But it was worth it. Quality was undoubtedly valued. And even after the rains, it was impressive to observe the resistance of the few remaining grapes. This well expresses the constant care for our vineyards and wine-growing practices throughout the year. It was indeed a difficult and complex year. But it will certainly be even more rewarding.
2005
Unexpected blessing
2005 was one of the driest years ever in the Douro. At the end of August, the effort of the vines under such extreme conditions was visually impressive and their physiological activity was very irregular. We were obviously worried. But suddenly the good news literally fell from the sky: in the 2nd week of September it rained. And something that you never wish for in another year was a true blessing this year. The few drops were enough to refresh the vine canopy and reactivate maturation. Two weeks later the result was spectacular! The first fermentations immediately showed the level of quality we had ahead of us – intense fruit aromas, concentration… Patience and careful monitoring of the vineyards in the most precious moments had been rewarded – this difficult year gave rise to some of the best wines born in the Alves de Sousa family vineyards.
2005 was one of the driest years ever in the Douro. At the end of August, the effort of the vines under such extreme conditions was visually impressive and their physiological activity was very irregular. We were obviously worried. But suddenly the good news literally fell from the sky: in the 2nd week of September it rained. And something that you never wish for in another year was a true blessing this year. The few drops were enough to refresh the vine canopy and reactivate maturation. Two weeks later the result was spectacular! The first fermentations immediately showed the level of quality we had ahead of us – intense fruit aromas, concentration… Patience and careful monitoring of the vineyards in the most precious moments had been rewarded – this difficult year gave rise to some of the best wines born in the Alves de Sousa family vineyards.
2004
The return of balance
Among a sequence of harvests with extreme conditions, 2004 is perhaps the most balanced. Temperatures were naturally high, but a more homogeneous distribution of rainfall during the wine-growing year allowed for smoother maturation. Beautiful musts resulted, deeply aromatic, with good acidity and freshness, characteristics that were maintained after vinification, resulting in wines of great elegance and balance.
Among a sequence of harvests with extreme conditions, 2004 is perhaps the most balanced. Temperatures were naturally high, but a more homogeneous distribution of rainfall during the wine-growing year allowed for smoother maturation. Beautiful musts resulted, deeply aromatic, with good acidity and freshness, characteristics that were maintained after vinification, resulting in wines of great elegance and balance.
2003
Extreme conditions
The weather conditions were extreme. The strong heat felt during ripening raised the sugar concentration of the berries to record values. We were worried that it might affect the balance of the grapes, but that didn't happen. A few drops of rain in the first week of September were enough to ensure the end of ripening and harmonize the composition of the berries. The result: extraordinary wines.
The weather conditions were extreme. The strong heat felt during ripening raised the sugar concentration of the berries to record values. We were worried that it might affect the balance of the grapes, but that didn't happen. A few drops of rain in the first week of September were enough to ensure the end of ripening and harmonize the composition of the berries. The result: extraordinary wines.
2002
2001
Balance and quality
Rainy winter, but followed by a spring with good weather conditions for the vineyard. August proved to be somewhat unstable, delaying the start of the harvest a little. The heat would eventually arrive in September, allowing for a very good end of maturation and a smooth harvest. Quantities were within average, but with very high overall quality. The balance, uniformity and quality of the harvest represented a step forward in the qualitative standard of the entire Alves de Sousa range.
Rainy winter, but followed by a spring with good weather conditions for the vineyard. August proved to be somewhat unstable, delaying the start of the harvest a little. The heat would eventually arrive in September, allowing for a very good end of maturation and a smooth harvest. Quantities were within average, but with very high overall quality. The balance, uniformity and quality of the harvest represented a step forward in the qualitative standard of the entire Alves de Sousa range.
2000
Um milénio mágico
As expectativas eram muito altas para este ano mágico. A Natureza deu um contributo muito especial. O adiantar do ciclo vegetativo, com um Abrolhamento precoce fruto de um Inverno seco e ameno foi compensado por uma Primavera anormalmente húmida e fria. A Floração e o Vingamento foram assim consideravelmente heterogéneos conduzindo a uma acentuada quebra na quantidade produzida. O baixo rendimento aliou-se a uma maturação “ideal”, com o calor estival equilibrado com ligeira precipitação em Agosto e um importante “aperto” final em Setembro. Os Vinhos resultaram muito estruturados e com grande potencial de evolução. A melhor forma de começar um novo milénio? Definitivamente!
As expectativas eram muito altas para este ano mágico. A Natureza deu um contributo muito especial. O adiantar do ciclo vegetativo, com um Abrolhamento precoce fruto de um Inverno seco e ameno foi compensado por uma Primavera anormalmente húmida e fria. A Floração e o Vingamento foram assim consideravelmente heterogéneos conduzindo a uma acentuada quebra na quantidade produzida. O baixo rendimento aliou-se a uma maturação “ideal”, com o calor estival equilibrado com ligeira precipitação em Agosto e um importante “aperto” final em Setembro. Os Vinhos resultaram muito estruturados e com grande potencial de evolução. A melhor forma de começar um novo milénio? Definitivamente!
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