Antonio Madeira Vinhas Velhas Tinto 2019 Dão DOC

The António Madeira Vinhas Velhas Tinto 2019 is the wine that best defines the philosophy and vision of the estate. Drawn from around twenty tiny old-vine parcels scattered throughout the foothills of the Serra da Estrela, it captures the heritage, biodiversity and distinctive terroir of the Dão Highlands.

A true field blend, the wine combines Jaen, Baga, Tinta Amarela and approximately twenty other indigenous Portuguese grape varieties, including several that have become increasingly rare. The vineyards range from 50 to 100 years of age, rooted in granite soils at elevations of 500 to 600 metres, providing freshness, minerality and remarkable complexity. The 2019 vintage was a particularly successful year, delivering fresh, ripe fruit and marking António Madeira's second full season working under biodynamic principles.

In keeping with the estate's low-intervention philosophy, fermentation occurred spontaneously in open vats using indigenous yeasts, with minimal extraction to preserve vineyard character. The wine was then matured for 18 months in used French oak barrels of varying sizes before a further six months in stainless steel, allowing the fruit, savoury complexity and mineral detail to emerge with clarity and balance.

Tasting Notes

Brooding and aromatic, the nose reveals layers of red cherry, plum and floral notes, supported by subtle savoury complexity. The palate is vibrant and structured, balancing bright plum fruit with fresh acidity and a distinctive mineral, spicy undertone. Dried herbs, stony nuances and savoury depth add further complexity, creating a wine that is both immediately enjoyable and built for long-term development.

Wine Details
Producer: António Madeira
Region: Dão, Serra da Estrela, Portugal
Vintage: 2019
Grape Varieties: Field blend of Jaen, Baga, Tinta Amarela and approximately 20 other native varieties
Vineyards: Around 20 old-vine parcels, aged 50-100 years
Soil: Granite
Altitude: 500-600 metres
Farming: Biodynamic (uncertified)
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts, spontaneous fermentation in open vats
Ageing: 18 months in used French oak, followed by 6 months in stainless steel
Alcohol: 13.1%
Total Acidity: 5.62 g/L
pH: 3.67
Production: 7,500 bottles
Bottled: November 2021
About António Madeira

French-born and of Portuguese descent, António Madeira has dedicated himself to preserving the historic vineyards of the Serra da Estrela. Since 2010, he has sought out and restored old vineyards that he considers the "Grand Crus of the Dão Highlands", farming them by hand and biodynamically to reveal the purest expression of their soils, indigenous varieties and natural yeast populations. His work has played a significant role in rescuing many of the region's most important vineyard sites from abandonment.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for roast lamb, duck, game birds, grilled pork, mushroom dishes and mature cheeses.

Cellaring

With its natural acidity, old-vine concentration and layered structure, Vinhas Velhas 2019 will continue to develop beautifully over the next 10-15 years.

A benchmark old-vine Dão red, combining freshness, salinity, mineral complexity and the authentic character of the Serra da Estrela's historic vineyards.