Filipa Pato S.L. RA Extra Brut 2022

Grape: Baga, Arinto (and native white/red varieties)
Vintage: 2022
Type: Sparkling

Crafted by biodynamic pioneer Filipa Pato and her husband, master sommelier William Wouters, this rare traditional-method sparkling cuvée—S.L. RA (referencing the historic single-vineyard terroirs of São Lourenço and Ribeira de Algueirão in Bairrada)—is an homage to high-tension, long-lees Portuguese sparkling wine. Rooted in pure calcário (calcareous clay and limestone) soils influenced by damp Atlantic maritime currents, the fruit is harvested early by hand to preserve electric acidity. In the cellar, the base wine undergoes a spontaneous, native-yeast primary fermentation in neutral vessels. Following secondary fermentation in bottle, the wine rested on its fine lees for an extended aging period before being disgorged in 2025 with zero makeup and minimal-to-zero dosage.

In the glass, it displays a pale golden-straw hue with an incredibly fine, persistent mousse. The nose is intricate and high-toned, bursting with aromas of crisp green apple, white peach, crushed chalk, sourdough crust, and a subtle, floral hint of dried chamomile and sea spray. On the palate, a "crystalline" line of razor-sharp Atlantic acidity drives through the creamy, brioche-tinged texture imparted by its extended lees contact. Fine, persistent bubbles give the mid-palate a delicate lift, highlighting citrus zest and tart orchard fruits. It concludes with a bone-dry, razor-focused finish that leaves a long, mouthwatering trail of wet limestone, lemon oil, and a salty, oceanic minerality.