Discover Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco 2018 – A Lisbon White Wine Gem
Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco is a standout white wine from the Lisbon wine region. It brings together the vibrancy of Portuguese terroir and the elegance of barrel aging. Crafted from Arinto and Chardonnay grapes, this white delivers bright citrus notes, balanced acidity, and a refined finish. The 2018 vintage highlights the estate’s commitment to quality, tradition, and modern winemaking.
This wine is a superb example of what Lisbon whites have to offer. Its versatility and layered complexity make it a great addition to your cellar or dinner table.
The Legacy
The origins of Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco lie in one of Portugal’s oldest and most historic estates, dating back to 1492. Located near the Serra de Montejunto, this estate benefits from a unique microclimate. The nearby Atlantic Ocean provides cool breezes, while the clay-limestone soils offer excellent drainage and minerality.
This microclimate is perfect for cultivating white grape varieties like Arinto and Chardonnay. The estate carefully hand-harvests the grapes at dawn to preserve their freshness. After gentle pressing, the juice is fermented in French oak barrels, adding complexity without overpowering the wine's fruit character.
Winemaking That Elevates Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco 2018
What makes Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco special is its delicate balance of freshness and structure. The wine undergoes fermentation in 225L French oak barrels. It is then aged on fine lees for four months with regular bâtonnage. This process enhances body, adds texture, and helps integrate the oak beautifully.
The result is a white wine with creamy depth, elegant oak spices, and lively citrus flavors. It is both vibrant and smooth, making it suitable for immediate enjoyment or short-term aging.
Tasting Notes – What to Expect from Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco 2018
Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco opens with a straw-yellow color and a clean, aromatic nose. The bouquet offers citrus blossom, lemon zest, ripe grapefruit, and subtle hints of vanilla and biscuit. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with refreshing acidity and a firm mineral backbone.
Expect flavors of green apple, lime, toasted almond, and creamy oak. The finish is long and dry, with lingering citrus and saline freshness. This complexity and elegance make the wine a memorable experience from the first sip to the last.
Food Pairing Ideas
This Lisbon white wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Serve Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco chilled at 8–10°C for best results.
It matches perfectly with:
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Grilled seafood like prawns, squid, or sea bass
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Creamy seafood risottos
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Roast chicken or turkey with lemon-herb seasoning
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Fresh salads with goat cheese
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Mild cheeses like Brie or Camembert
Looking for more options? Explore our White Wine Collection for additional premium bottles.
Reviews and Awards – Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco 2018 Recognized
Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco has earned strong praise from critics and competitions alike. Wine Spectator awarded it 87 points, praising its structure and citrus-driven profile. It received 16.5 points from Revista de Vinhos and 17 from Grandes Escolhas, cementing its status as a respected Lisbon white.
These awards reflect the skillful winemaking and consistent quality that define the Gradil estate.
Technical Details
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Producer: Quinta do Gradil
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Region: Lisbon, Portugal
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Vintage: 2018
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Grapes: Arinto (50%), Chardonnay (50%)
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Alcohol: 14%
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Aging: 4 months in French oak with bâtonnage
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Style: Reserva Branco
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Serving Temp: 8–10°C
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Final Thoughts – Why Choose?
Quinta do Gradil Reserva Branco stands out for its freshness, complexity, and refined oak aging. It is a benchmark Lisbon white wine that showcases Portugal’s rich wine heritage. Whether you’re planning a seafood dinner or looking to impress guests, this wine delivers in every glass.
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