Quinta do Javali “Clos Fonte do Santo - Stone Vineyard”

DOURO, PORTUGAL |  2018

Last year, Le Midi had the pleasure of hosting Quinta do Javali’s winemaker, António Mendes Sr., for an exclusive tasting of nine of his remarkable wines. Known for his magnetic personality and “nothing-is-impossible” spirit, António brings unparalleled passion to his work, infusing his wines with a sense of place that reflects the rugged terrain of the left bank of the Douro river. His dedication to showcasing the region’s terroir in his amphitheater estate, alongside his vision for lighter, more elegant wines, has put Quinta do Javali on the map as a pioneer of biodynamic practices in Portugal.

Javali’s “Stone Vineyard” bottling is one of António’s most unique creations, sourced from a select 3.5-hectare plot marked by three distinctive stones at the vineyard’s highest point. Planted with over 30 indigenous grape varieties, this wine represents a traditional Portuguese field blend that brings deep complexity to the wine. António’s approach to vinification is as thoughtful as his vineyard practices; he harvests by hand in small batches, ferments whole clusters in steel lagares at carefully controlled temperatures, then ages the wine in old French oak barrels to preserve the natural nuances of the fruit. The unique red capsule atop the bottle also designates a unique bottling where maceraton was extended, allowing more complexity and providing an overall richer body.

With a limited production of just 370 cases, the 2018 “Stone Vineyard” is a true unicorn wine. It has a vibrant ruby color reminiscent of an aged red Burgundy representing aromas of ripe strawberries, blackberries, and red plums. On the palate, it’s balanced and elegant, showcasing a slate-driven minerality that speaks to the vineyard’s rocky soils. This bottle shines when served a little chilled and pairs great with your hearty holiday dishes – especially anything that uses cranberries in the recipe.