2024 Soalheiro Primeiras Vinhas

Soalheiro Primeiras Vinhas 2024 is a benchmark expression of Alvarinho from the cool, green hills of northern Portugal’s Vinho Verde region. Sourced from some of the estate’s oldest vines, it combines depth and structure with the precision and freshness for which Soalheiro is renowned. The name “Primeiras Vinhas” – literally “first vines” – pays homage to the original Alvarinho vineyards planted by the family in Melgaço, now considered some of the finest terroir in the Monção e Melgaço subregion.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2024 Primeiras Vinhas typically shows a pale straw to light lemon colour with bright green reflections, hinting at its youth and vibrant acidity. The nose is refined and layered: expect aromas of ripe citrus (lemon zest, tangerine), white peach and nectarine, alongside floral notes of orange blossom and subtle hints of herbal mountain tea and wet stone. As it opens, more complexity emerges with delicate nuances of spice and a saline, Atlantic-influenced edge. On the palate, this cuvée is concentrated yet beautifully balanced, with a lively, linear acidity that carries flavours of citrus, stone fruit and green apple through a long, mineral-driven finish. The texture is notably more structured and textural than many classic Vinho Verde whites, thanks to the old vines and lower yields, giving a sense of density without heaviness. Primeiras Vinhas is designed to age well; in the first 2–3 years it shows vivid fruit and tension, and over 5–8+ years it typically develops more honeyed, nutty and smoky notes while retaining its core freshness.

Production
Primeiras Vinhas is sourced from Soalheiro’s original Alvarinho parcels in Melgaço, within the Monção e Melgaço subregion of Vinho Verde, where the combination of granite soils, Atlantic influence and a protective ring of mountains creates an ideal microclimate for slow ripening. The vineyards are largely old vines, low-yielding and carefully tended, often with sustainable or organic practices to preserve both vine health and terroir expression. Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to preserve natural acidity and aromatic purity, then gently pressed. Fermentation typically takes place in stainless steel at controlled, cool temperatures, with a period of fine lees contact to build texture and complexity while maintaining the wine’s trademark precision and minerality. Oak, if used at all, is subtle to ensure the fruit and terroir remain at the forefront.

Food & Serving
This Alvarinho is a superb partner for seafood and dishes that call for both freshness and depth: think simply grilled fish, prawns, octopus, razor clams, sushi and sashimi, as well as ceviche and oysters. It also pairs beautifully with marinated shellfish, citrus-dressed salads, goat’s cheese, lightly spiced Asian cuisine and refined vegetable dishes such as asparagus or artichokes. Serve chilled but not icy, ideally around 9–11°C, to allow the aromas and texture to shine. Decanting is not essential, but pouring it into a larger white wine glass and giving it a few minutes in the glass can help the 2024 vintage open up, particularly in its youth.

Producer
Soalheiro is widely regarded as one of the pioneering and leading producers of Alvarinho in Portugal, based in the Melgaço area of the Vinho Verde region. Founded by the Cerdeira family, the estate began planting Alvarinho in the late 1970s and bottled its first Soalheiro wine in 1982, helping to transform the reputation of Vinho Verde from simple, spritzy wines into serious, terroir-driven whites. Over the decades, Soalheiro has become a reference point for the variety, known for meticulous vineyard work, innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability. The Primeiras Vinhas cuvée, sourced from the estate’s earliest Alvarinho plantings, stands as a flagship wine that encapsulates Soalheiro’s history and its leading role in elevating the Monção e Melgaço subregion on the international stage.

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