Antonio Madeira Vinhas Velhas Branco 2022 Dão DOC

The António Madeira Vinhas Velhas Branco 2022 is the ultimate expression of the estate's historic vineyards, sourced from every old-vine parcel cultivated by António Madeira across the foothills of the Serra da Estrela. Drawn from approximately 20 small vineyards aged between 50 and 130 years, this remarkable white captures the heritage, complexity and mineral character of the Dão Highlands.

A field blend of around 20 native Portuguese grape varieties, the wine is anchored by Síria, Fernão Pires, Bical, Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Arinto and Cerceal, which comprise around 75-80% of the blend. Many of the remaining varieties are rare and historically significant cultivars preserved within these ancient vineyards.

The 2022 season was marked by extreme dryness, producing concentrated fruit and exceptional vineyard expression. Guided by a philosophy of minimal intervention, António Madeira fermented the wine naturally with indigenous yeasts following a gentle pressing and gravity settling. Fermentation took place in 500L barrels and stainless steel tanks, lasting an extraordinary 10 months, contributing complexity and depth. The wine then underwent a long Burgundian-style élevage over two winters before bottling in April 2024.

Tasting Notes

Complex, refined and beautifully layered, the 2022 opens with a core of citrus fruit, supported by notes of ripe apple and pear. Subtle nuances of toast, spice and lanolin add further complexity, while the palate combines depth, texture and remarkable saline minerality. Concentrated yet precise, it finishes long and persistent with impressive weight, freshness and granite-driven character.

Wine Details
Producer: António Madeira
Region: Dão – Serra da Estrela, Portugal
Vintage: 2022
Grape Varieties: Field blend of approximately 20 native varieties, led by Síria, Fernão Pires, Bical, Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Arinto and Cerceal
Vineyards: 20 old-vine parcels
Vine Age: 50-130 years
Soil: Granite
Altitude: 500-700 metres
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in 500L barrels and stainless steel tanks
Malolactic Fermentation: Completed
Ageing: 20 months, 90% in 500L/600L French and Austrian oak barrels, 10% in stainless steel
Alcohol: 13.4%
Total Acidity: 5.73 g/L
pH: 3.31
Production: 7,000 bottles
Bottled: April 2024
Food Pairing

Outstanding with shellfish, grilled fish, salt cod, roast poultry, creamy cheese dishes and grilled vegetables, where its texture, freshness and mineral complexity can truly shine.

About António Madeira

French-born and of Portuguese heritage, António Madeira has devoted himself to rescuing and revitalising some of the Dão's oldest vineyards. Through meticulous farming, indigenous fermentations and a commitment to preserving forgotten grape varieties, he has become one of the region's most influential producers and a leading voice for the terroirs of the Serra da Estrela.

A profound old-vine Portuguese white, combining remarkable depth, saline minerality and Burgundian-inspired precision from some of the oldest vineyards in the Dão.