Quinta do Noval Vinhas da Passadouro 2020

Terroir Series is a new wine range launched by Quinta do Noval giving the opportunity to discover specific terroirs identified as exceptional.

VINHAS DO PASSADOURO
Quinta do Noval Vinhas do Passadouro is made from an exceptional terroir situated on the left bank of the Pinhão river. The vines are planted principally on ancient walled terraces, at the heart of which lies a 0.93 hectare parcel of old vines. These old vines from 1930 are a field blend of over 20 different traditional varieties from which we were able to vinify and isolate a restricted volume of outstanding wine. Vinhas do Passadouro 2020 is the first release.
This parcel of old vines is mainly composed of schist soil with a high mineral content including quartz, mica, and various types of feldspar that contribute to the unique flavours and characteristics found in this wine.
 
Characteristics of the vintage 2020
2020 was marked by two distinct periods. First during winter and up to the end of May, the high rainfall replenished the soil's water reserves. Then from June onwards, very hot and dry conditions resulted in low volumes of wines that show great quality and character.

Grape varieties that usually ripen sequentially needed to be picked at the same time. This occurrence was beneficial for the old field blend plots. We produced outstanding wines, concentrated, well-structured and very dark. A year unlike any other we have known in the past decades. As a result of the prolonged period of drought and heat, a very early and rapid harvest was needed. Although the harvest will go down as one of the most difficult ever, the quality of the wines made is thrilling.