Mendes & Symington Contacto Alvarinho
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Alvarinho is a short-cycle grape variety, with a low yield in must due to the large amount of seeds and thick skin, which is rich in aromatic compounds.
- The vineyard is located in Monção and Melgaço, Portugal.
- Contacto: the state or condition of physical touching. The wine’s name refers to the practice of leaving the grape skins in contact with the must to add layers of flavor and complexity to the finished wine.
- Ready to drink but has good aging potential (~10 years).
Varietal Composition: 100% Alvarinho
Elaboration: The grapes are handpicked into small boxes and transported to the winery in a short period of time. At the winery, the grapes are fully destemmed with slight skin maceration, followed by clarification at 54°F and fermentation at controlled speed and temperature. The wine then ages for a minimum of 3 months in stainless steel on fine lees and with frequent bâtonnage.
Tasting Notes: A floral and delicate aroma, Contacto possesses a high aromatic concentration, and its minerality makes for an elegant and complex wine. Prevalent citrus notes and complexity on the palate are the key when tasting this wine.
PRESS
2023 – 92 Wine Enthusiast
2021 – 91 Wine & Spirit | 90 James Suckling
2020 – 94 Wine & Spirit | 93 Wine Enthusiast
2019 – 93 Wine Enthusiast | 91 Wine Advocate
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
In 2023, the Symington family joined forces with the renowned winemaker Anselmo Mendes from the unique Vinho Verde region, to produce premium wines with the utmost quality and prestige. Anselmo has rightly earned his reputation as one of the most accomplished winemakers in Portugal and as a pioneer in the area.
Following Symington’s acquisition of the historic estate of Casa de Rodas in the prestigious Monção and Melgaço sub-region of the Vinho Verde DOC in northern Portugal, the Mendes and Symington families decided to create a joint venture with the aim of commercializing the wines produced on the property. The joint venture also included the acquisition of the renowned Vinho Verde brand, Contacto, produced by Anselmo Mendes, which has seen enormous success in Portugal and internationally, and both families believe it has great potential for further development.