Rufia Branco 2018

Let’s start by saying that this is not your usual fruity white wine ; It wouldn’t easily fit into one of the white wine profiles that most of us are used to, which makes it unique. The expression of the fruitiness (ripe pear, floral notes, a touch of quince and slight salty honey on the finish) is somewhat subdued, it’s almost as if it is a secondary element in this charmingly soft and gentle wine. The star of this show, however, must be what we call the “material” – loosely meaning the consistency on the palate. On this front, this bottle is punching WAY above its weight being aristocratically clean, toned and balanced. It really feels like you are sipping a delight, a treat. We are used to this kind of form in places like Jura and Burgundy, which is not a surprise considering the aptitude of the Dao being the more refined region in Portugal at around 500 above sea level, and the affinity of Joao Taveres with these types of wines.   Serve chilled and open 10-20 minutes before drinking.