The Melgaço region, the most northerly point of Portugal, is protected by a range of mountains that create the perfect conditions of rainfall, temperature and sunshine needed to perfectly ripen the Alvarinho grapes. The grapes for this wine, Alvarinho and Loureiro, two noble grape varieties of Minho in northern Portugal, are harvested by hand into small boxes.
ALLO is a vibrant and precise white wine with a gorgeous balance due to the moderately low alcohol content. Alvarinho grape gives structure and Loureiro grape the elegant and mineral aromatic distinction. The resulting wine is brilliant yellow in colour, with a vibrant citrus flavour and elegant mineral profile. The Alvarinho, full of tropical fruit and structure, contrasts with the Loureiro, floral and full of elegance, which gives this white wine with 11%vol - a unique balance.
It is ideal as an aperitif or to accompany seafood dishes and fish. Incidentally, the name ALLO comes from the first two letters of Alvarinho and Loureiro.
"This is another punch-above-your-weight wine from Vinho Verde in general and Soalheiro in particular. It's not quite as deep as the monovarietal Alvarinho, but it has fine concentration for an inexpensive blend nonetheless. Plus, there's that little bit extra in those other areas—flavor and aromatics. Then, there's the acidity. The tension on the finish and the grapefruit-nuanced edge are remarkable in its youth. For some, it may even be a bit too much. It's still not entirely clear where this new brand goes as the wines evolve, but overall it looks like a terrific new label in the lineup so far. Acidity preserves, so I expect this to age well. It may well be better this time next year, when it pulls in the sharp elbows a little. 91 points"
(Mark Squires, 237, The Wine Advocate)
Quinta da Soalheiro among the best wine producers in the world by Wine & Spirits Magazine - "2017 top 100 Wineries” and "Top 100 Tasting & Road Show Invitation.