Douro Branco, Casa Ferreirinha, `Papa Figos`, Portugal, 750ml

Light and fresh, unoaked, slightly aromatic.

The wine has received positive reviews, with James Suckling awarding it 92 points.

Casa Ferreirinha's Papa Figos Douro Branco is a distinctive white wine from Portugal's Douro Valley that stands out for several reasons:

1. Blend of Native Grapes: It's crafted from a blend of indigenous Portuguese varieties, including Rabigato, Viosinho, Gouveio, Arinto, and Códega, showcasing the region's unique terroir.

2. Aromatic Profile: The wine offers complex aromas with predominant notes of white stone fruit, tropical fruits, citrus, and floral hints, along with a touch of minerality.

3. Taste Characteristics: On the palate, it presents refreshing acidity, notes of fresh pear, and a long, elegant finish.

4. Winemaking Approach: The grapes are carefully selected and hand-harvested from vineyards at around 600 meters above sea level, benefiting from a wide diurnal temperature range that contributes to flavor intensity and acidity retention.

5. Vinification: After gentle crushing and pressing, the wine undergoes fermentation at controlled temperatures (16-18°C) for about 20 days, followed by five months of maturation in stainless steel to preserve its bright fruit character.

6. Versatility: Its crisp, aromatic nature makes it an excellent pairing for shellfish, grilled fish, and mild cheeses.

Papa Figos Douro Branco embodies Casa Ferreirinha's commitment to producing high-quality, fresh, and vibrant white wines from the Douro region, more typically known for its reds.

Suckling says: This is the first Papa Figos white that has passed muster with us, and it feels like a layered, ozone-soaked Muscadet in both shape and size. 

This is a stunning wine with gastronomic skills and a superbly long finish.  It is also the first of many Casa Ferreirinha wines in this list – and this is no surprise because this outfit is number one in the country when it comes to the depth and quality of its portfolio.