Dominio do Acor Encruzado 2023
Dominio do Acor Encruzado 2023 – alternate view 2
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Dominio do Acor Encruzado 2023

Dominio do Acor
$78.00

Grape: Encruzado
Vintage: 2023
Type: White

This limited white wine comes from thirty-three-year-old encruzado vines planted within the single vineyard parcel called Vinha Nascente in the Dão region. Dominio do Açor manages this small six-hectare plot under sustainable viticulture guidelines, producing only one-thousand three-hundred and sixty-four bottles. The grapes are natively fermented using wild vineyard yeasts and undergo a natural maturation process in French oak casks. This zero-makeup winemaking approach lets the granitic geology express itself clearly through a refined smoky reduction.

It pours an intense lemon color, releasing layered aromas of citrus fruit, wild flowers, tonic herbs, and almonds. On the palate, the full-bodied frame is voluminous yet firm, balancing rich orchard fruit flavors with a sharp line of granite minerality. Notes of wood resin and clean smoke integrate with a texturally dense mouthfeel. A clean thread of natural acidity runs through the center, keeping the broad volume. It finishes dry, long, and complex.

Winery

Domínio do Açor is based near Oliveira do Conde, in the Terras de Senhorim area of Portugal’s Dão. Granite is the defining geological thread, with old field blends and separately planted parcels preserving a wide range of local grapes. Encruzado, Cerceal and Bical are important to the whites, while varieties such as Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro shape the reds. Winemaker Luís Lopes, viticulturist João Costa and terroir consultant Pedro Parra bring complementary experience to a project centered on the differences between its vineyards.

Farming is moving toward organic cultivation, with biodynamic practices introduced in selected parcels. In the cellar, indigenous yeasts, stainless steel, carefully chosen barrels and traditional granite lagares are used according to the wine. Aging on fine lees and measured handling aim to develop texture while keeping the fruit and the character of the site clear. The Vila Romana wines provide a broader view of the property, while bottlings such as Vinha Ruína and Vinha Celta focus more closely on individual grapes and parcels within the estate.