2022 Quinta Casal das Freiras Reserva Branco

2022 Quinta Casal das Freiras Reserva Branco is the flagship white from this respected Tejo estate, crafted only in the very best vintages and approved each year by the Tejo appellation tasting panel before it can carry the coveted “Reserva” designation. First released with the 2019 vintage, this limited white showcases the authentic character of Portugal’s native grapes in an elegant, finely balanced style. With its modest 13% alcohol and slow-unfolding layers of flavor, it offers serious complexity without ever feeling heavy.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2022 Reserva Branco shows a bright, pale straw to light gold hue, hinting at both freshness and its time in French oak. The nose is expressive yet refined, with aromas of ripe white stone fruit, pear and citrus zest wrapped in delicate notes of white flowers, subtle spice and a gentle touch of vanilla from barrel aging. On the palate, it is round and medium to full-bodied, with a beautifully judged balance between fruit richness and vibrant acidity. Flavors of white peach, citrus, and orchard fruit are layered with nuanced oak tones—vanilla, a hint of toast, and a light creaminess—without ever overshadowing the wine’s fresh core. The finish is long and harmonious, with a clean, mineral edge that invites another sip. While already very enjoyable now, the structure and acidity suggest it can evolve gracefully for several years, developing greater complexity and tertiary notes with 3–5 years in bottle.

Production
This Reserva Branco is sourced from vineyards in the Tejo region, northeast of Lisbon, where fertile, alluvial soils and the moderating influence of the Tejo River create ideal conditions for balanced, expressive whites. The blend brings together classic local varieties—Arinto for its citrusy acidity and backbone, Fernão Pires for fragrance and fruit, and Malvasia Fina for texture and aromatic complexity. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure optimal selection, then fully destemmed and gently crushed. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperatures to preserve freshness and nuance, after which the wine is aged for 6–8 months in French oak barrels. It is then bottled and left to rest for several more months before release, allowing the components to knit together into an elegant, seamless whole.

Food & Serving
This is a versatile gastronomic white that shines at the table. Its combination of freshness and depth makes it an excellent match for grilled or baked fish, seafood risottos, scallops, roasted poultry, creamy pasta dishes, and lightly spiced Mediterranean or Portuguese cuisine. It also pairs beautifully with semi-soft cheeses and dishes featuring herbs, citrus, or mild spices. Serve at around 10–12°C to highlight its aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. A brief decant of 20–30 minutes, or simply opening the bottle a little in advance, can help the wine open up and reveal its full range of subtle, layered aromas.

Producer
Quinta Casal das Freiras is situated in the heart of Portugal’s Tejo region, an area long known for its fertile river plains, olive groves, forests and deeply rooted wine culture. From their estate near historic towns such as Tomar, Constância and Santarém, the family behind Casal das Freiras has built a reputation as one of Tejo’s standout producers, focusing on quality, balance and the expression of native Portuguese varieties. Their wines are a frequent presence on the lists of the region’s better restaurants, where they are valued for their elegance, consistency and strong price-to-quality ratio—qualities that have helped place both the winery and the wider Tejo appellation firmly on the radar of discerning wine drinkers.

We deliver within 2 - 6 business days. You can choose whether it should be to a parcel shop or home delivery. Free delivery to both parcel shops and your front door. Our store partners primarily use GLS, DPD, UPS and DHL for deliveries. We cover deliveries to the majority of countries in Europe.