2005
Irregular and Unique
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 you would never want 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 vineyards from the Alves de Sousa family.
QUINTA DA OLIVEIRINHA
VINHA FRANCA
RED Douro D.O.C
Located in the “heart” of the Douro Valley, on the right bank of the river and with natural and historical potential to produce great Ports (its vineyards hold the highest quality classification in the region - "Letter A"), it is now reinterpreted as a collection of Douro and Port wines, with the always personal touch of the Alves de Sousa family.
This is the Alves de Sousa family’s sincere tribute to the Douro. With Touriga Franca as its great grape variety - the backbone of the region, the unifying element of all the other grape varieties. At Quinta da Oliveirinha you will find an extraordinary terroir to express its best. And, in the best of Douro traditions, Franca is elevated in this vineyard and in this wine by the notes, nuances and contributions of the other native grape varieties. A compliment to Franca. A compliment to the Douro.
HARVESTS : 2013, 2017
