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 very irregular. We were obviously worried. But suddenly, good news literally fell from the sky: in the second week of September, it rained. And something that in any other year would never be desirable was a true blessing in this one. The few drops were enough to refresh the vine canopy and reactivate ripening. Two weeks later, the result was spectacular! The first fermentations immediately showed the level of quality that lay ahead – intense fruit aromas, concentration… The patience and careful monitoring of the vines at the most precious moments had been rewarded – this difficult year had produced some of the best wines born in the vineyards of the Alves de Sousa family.
QUINTA DAS CALDAS PORTO TAWNY SPECIAL RESERVE
TAWNY PORT
A estate with a great historical tradition, once owned by the famous Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira (Ferreirinha). It is currently undergoing intensive restructuring, using a whole range of judicious and innovative technical means, without neglecting the valuable legacy left by our ancestors. The result is a blend of tradition and modernity that will certainly reinforce Quinta das Caldas' position as a pillar in the production of top-quality wines. Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful estates in the Douro.
The return to family tradition Late 1980s. Domingos Alves de Sousa, son and grandson of Douro winegrowers, also dedicated to producing fortified wines from his estates for prestigious Port wine companies, became interested in Douro table wines, which had been forgotten by the region until then. From then on, his story was well-known: “Producer of the Year” in 1999 and 2006 by the prestigious Revista de Vinhos and international recognition, the result of a career that combined the quality of his wines with great personal dedication and an important contribution to the image and prestige of the Douro Present. However, his roots in the schist lands are deep. Port was never forgotten. Rather, it was studied, studied and experimented with. Over the last few decades, apparently focused solely on Douro wines, many Ports were produced in the Quinta da Gaivosa winery. Experiences, lessons, in the search for the best expression of the family vineyards in the various categories of Port Wine. Today, the Alves de Sousa family is proud to present a distinguished line of Ports, which reflect all the work, attention and deep respect for Port Wine, with Alves de Sousa's personal touch.
