Rufia Branco Tavares de Pina 2022
ArtisanalThe Rufia Branco from the Tavares de Pina winery is a white wine that is mineral and refreshing. It is made in the Dão area, manually harvesting the grapes Encruzado, Erceal Branco, Malvasía, Arinto, and Bical, which are fermented for 10-12 days using indigenous yeasts and aged for 8 months in steel tanks. The first sip leaves a fantastic surprise of saline notes followed by herbaceous aromas and fruity hints of apricot. With a fine, persistent, and slightly tannic palate, it is ready to accompany raw fish dishes.
With its stunning agility and pronounced mineral vein, the ‘Rufia’ Branco from the Portuguese winery Tavares de Pina delights the senses of anyone who tries it, from casual enthusiasts to the most experienced palates. Within the municipality of Penalva do Castelo, in the district of Viseu, winemaker João Tavares de Pina is characterized by a completely sustainable approach that allows him to offer untainted expressions of his territory. The winery consists of 40 hectares, of which only 13 are cultivated with vines, in a context of absolute biodiversity thanks to the abundant presence of forests.
The ‘Rufia’ Branco from Tavares de Pina is composed of a blend of Encruzado (30%), Erceal Branco (20%), Malvasia (20%), Arinto (15%), and Bical (15%). The vineyards, located about 550 meters above sea level, are cultivated on clay and granite soils excluding the use of synthetic chemical products. After manual harvesting, alcoholic fermentation takes place in steel tanks conducted by indigenous yeasts for a period of about 10-12 days. The wine is subsequently aged on its fine lees for 8 months always in steel and then bottled without undergoing filtration.
To the eye, João Tavares de Pina ‘Rufia’ Branco reveals a golden yellow hue with brilliant reflections. A gentle yet energetic olfactory panorama described by hints of summer fruit, almond, flowers, and aromatic herbs supported by intense saline puffs. Refreshing and mineral taste, simultaneously endowed with a light body and remarkable persistence. It finishes with delightful sensations of white-fleshed fruit and citrus. A graceful and enticing Portuguese label, ideal to drink young, thus enhancing its lively freshness. Appetizers and light seafood first courses make for ideal pairings.