The Vigneview Verdict
This Casal de Ventozela Arinto 2019 single varietal wine from Portugal’s Vinho Verde DOC region really sang to me…honestly! Aromas of lemon and lime along with white blossom notes drew me in. The powerful acidity on the palate was so uplifting and such a refreshing European white wine! One of my friends described it as slightly effervescent and maybe this can be attributed to the fine lees contact while maturing. Flavours of peaches, lemons, limes and zesty, steely complexities continued on quite a lengthy finish, like a tune you just can’t get out of your head! I’m glad it sang its heart out because I won’t be forgetting this wine.
Also known as ‘Pederna’, Arinto is one of the most highly regarded native grape varieties found within the Vinho Verde DOC region. The region itself means ‘Green Wines’ and is located just south of the River Minho which acts as the natural border between Rías Baixas DO in Spain’s Galicia region and Northern Portugal. The climate in Vinho Verde is also influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, but the summers are warmer and dryer than in Rías Baixas. This particular wine has similar aromas and flavours to Albariño, yet is higher in acidity and lighter in body. Arinto is a great variety to grow in warmer climates because it retains higher levels of natural acidity. It is often used to add refreshing complexities to blends.
Food Pairing
I highly recommend pairing this Casal de Ventozela Arinto 2019 wine with fresh prawns or a goat’s cheese.
Cheers! x
Producer: Casal de Ventozela
Country: Portugal
Region: Vinho Verde
Vintage: 2019
Grapes: Arinto
Closure: Screw cap
Style: still
Colour: Pale straw
Sweetness: off-dry
Price: £7.99 (Majestic)
Acidity: High
Alcohol: 12%
Body: Light
Aromas/Flavours:
Floral: Subtle lime blossom notes
Citrus fruit: Lemon, Lime
Orchard fruit: Green apple
Other: steely minerality
Drinking Window: Drink now!