Quinta do Pinto Viognier & Chardonnay Branco 2022: A Refined Portuguese Wine Experience
Quinta do Pinto Viognier & Chardonnay Branco 2022 is a standout example of the evolution and sophistication of modern Portuguese wine. This elegant white blend brings together the expressive aromatics of Viognier and the structure of Chardonnay, offering a wine that is both vibrant and layered. Crafted in the Lisboa wine region—an area gaining recognition for its high-quality whites—this vintage captures the best of Portugal’s terroir and the careful craftsmanship of the Quinta do Pinto estate.
A Wine Rooted in Lisbon’s Unique Terroir
Located in Alenquer, just north of Lisbon, Quinta do Pinto benefits from a privileged microclimate. The vineyards are planted on clay-limestone soils, which retain water and nutrients while offering excellent drainage. Combined with the influence of cool Atlantic breezes, these conditions slow down ripening, resulting in grapes with greater balance and complexity.
This natural setting is matched by the estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture. Quinta do Pinto practices minimal intervention farming and promotes biodiversity throughout its vineyards. Hand-harvesting ensures only the best grapes are selected, and gentle gravity-fed processes in the winery preserve the fruit’s natural integrity.
A Thoughtful Winemaking Process
The 2022 vintage of this Portuguese wine reflects a focus on purity, elegance, and character. Viognier grapes are partially destemmed and cold-soaked before fermentation, a technique that enhances their floral and aromatic qualities. Meanwhile, Chardonnay grapes are whole-cluster pressed, contributing finesse and structural backbone to the final blend.
Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts at low temperatures, a slow and natural process that retains delicate aromas and promotes complexity. This spontaneous fermentation aligns with the estate’s philosophy of allowing the vineyard and vintage to express themselves with minimal interference.
Lees Aging and Split-Vessel Maturation
One of the defining features of this wine is its aging process. The wine is matured for 13 months on fine lees (sur lie), a traditional technique that enhances texture and adds depth. This aging is conducted equally in two types of vessels:
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50% in concrete tanks – preserving the wine’s natural freshness and fruit-driven profile.
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50% in French oak barrels – adding layers of creaminess, subtle spice, and soft structure.
This dual-vessel approach allows the wine to balance precision and richness, resulting in a textured, multidimensional white that sets it apart in the world of Portuguese wine.
Tasting Profile: Elegant, Aromatic, and Structured
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Color: Brilliant lemon yellow with youthful green reflections.
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Aromas: White florals lead the bouquet, followed by notes of pear, green apple, and peach. Hints of passion fruit and pineapple add tropical brightness. Subtle vanilla, honey, and toasted notes from oak aging round out the nose.
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Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a creamy mouthfeel thanks to lees contact. Crisp acidity balances ripe orchard and citrus fruits. A long, mineral-driven finish lingers with hints of spice, wet stone, and gentle oak.
Food Pairings to Highlight Its Character
This Portuguese wine shines with a variety of dishes, especially those that balance richness and freshness. Serve well-chilled at 10–12 °C to maximize its aromatics and texture. Ideal food pairings include:
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Grilled white fish or shrimp with lemon or citrus glazes
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Herb-roasted chicken or turkey
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Creamy pastas, especially with mushrooms or seafood
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Salads with vinaigrettes or citrus-based dressings
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Soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or aged goat cheese
The wine’s acidity and creamy structure make it adaptable, perfect for both light summer meals and more indulgent, savory fare.
A Modern Expression of Portuguese Wine
Quinta do Pinto Viognier & Chardonnay Branco 2022 exemplifies the innovative spirit of modern Portuguese wine. While honoring traditional methods like lees aging and wild yeast fermentation, it also embraces contemporary techniques such as concrete vessel use and precise grape handling. The result is a wine that bridges tradition and innovation—rich in character, expressive in aroma, and balanced in structure.
The combination of Viognier and Chardonnay is still relatively rare in Portugal, making this bottle especially appealing to adventurous wine lovers. It delivers the elegance of Old World winemaking with the fruit-driven vibrancy that appeals to modern palates.
Discover More from the Lisbon Wine Scene
Continue your exploration of Portuguese wine with more excellent options from the Lisbon region, available at Garrafeira da Ilha:
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Herdade do Peso Sossego Branco – Light, bright, and easy-drinking.
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Bailado White – A citrus-forward white with refreshing acidity.
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Ruelas White – Lively and fruit-driven, great for everyday meals or relaxed gatherings.
These selections share Quinta do Pinto’s commitment to quality and terroir expression, giving you even more ways to experience the vibrant world of Portuguese white wines.
