Description
the Quinta (Estate), located in Pinhão at an altitude of 150m above sea level in the Cima Corgo, the Douro sub-region known for making the best Ports and dry wines. This winery was established in 1816 by D. Pedro IV, the Portuguese crown heir, as a place where they could collect taxes, which were then paid in grapes or wine. This is the origin of the Quinta's name: Infantado derives from Infante, the Portuguese for Prince. The Roseira family has owned Quinta do Infantado for over a century. Joao Roseira looks after the vineyards and oversees the winemaking and his sister-in-law Paula looks after the marketing of their wines.
Vineyards
All the Infantado vineyards are the best quality that the Douro Valley has to offer and are planted on schistous soils. Infantado owns small vineyard plots ranging from 1.5-5 hectares in the Vale de Moinhos, Serra de Cotas, Castelos and Serra Douro where the grapes for the LBV are grown. These are old vines planted at an altitude of between 200-350m above sea level.
Vinification
As is tradition at Quinta do Infantado, the grapes were trodden by foot and fermented in the traditional lagares. Fermentation lasted longer than many estates resulting in drier wines. 77% ABV wine brandy was used to stop fermentation and the LBV was aged for 45 months in 100 year old, 250 hectolitre casks before being bottled unfiltered.
Tasting Notes
Ruby in colour, with notes of black fruit and spices on the nose. The palate is fresh, fruity and spicy, full of round ripe tannins. The finish is long with a medium freshness.
Vintage Information
Grape varieties | 35% Touriga Franca 35% Touriga Nacional 30% Tinta Roriz |
Region | Cima Corgo, Douro |
Winemaker | Fátima Ribas |
Alcohol (ABV) | 19.5% |