Quinta do Gradil Saltimbancos Sauvignon Blanc 2021 – Lisbon White with Flair
Quinta do Gradil Saltimbancos Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is a vibrant Portuguese white wine. It showcases the crisp, aromatic style of the Lisbon region. From the historic Quinta do Gradil estate, this 2021 vintage combines Old World terroir with modern winemaking. The name “Saltimbancos” hints at the wine’s playful character. It is made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes harvested in 2021. The juice was fermented and aged for nine months in a mix of new and seasoned French oak barrels.
This process gives the wine a complex structure and a subtle creamy texture. For example, the Saltimbancos name honors Isidoro D’Oliveira, a former owner who was also a poet. His fado poem “Saltimbancos” inspired this label as a tribute to his festive spirit. As a prime example of Portuguese Sauvignon Blanc, this wine merges Old World minerality with New World fruit intensity. It exemplifies that balance. For wine lovers exploring Lisbon’s wines, this bottle provides a distinctive introduction to the region’s acclaimed whites.
Crafted at one of the oldest estates in Lisbon, this white reflects a proud heritage. Quinta do Gradil has roots dating to the 17th century. It continues to blend tradition with innovation. Today Quinta do Gradil is renowned among Lisbon wines for quality and innovation. Examples include Quinta do Gradil Tannat Tinto 2021 and Quinta do Gradil Reserva Tinto 2019. These wines share the estate’s distinctive style, and the Saltimbancos line similarly showcases the winery’s versatility. This wine embodies the estate’s blend of tradition and innovation.
Quinta do Gradil Saltimbancos Sauvignon Blanc 2021 – Tasting Profile and Pairing
On the nose, this wine greets you with exotic aromas and an unmistakable note of fresh asparagus. According to tasting notes, it has “asparagus, exotic notes… pepper notes… smoky character… persistent with refreshing acidity”. You may also detect tropical fruit, passion fruit, and citrus hints from its Atlantic-influenced climate. A subtle oak aging adds a delicate smokiness and creamy texture to the palate. Bright citrus notes like lemon or lime often emerge on the finish, complementing its lively acidity.
This Sauvignon Blanc 2021 has lively acidity and a medium body, making it a versatile Portuguese white wine. It pairs beautifully with seafood, goat cheese, shellfish, or crisp summer salads. It even shines with grilled sea bass or an herbed chicken dish. These pairings bring out its lively acidity and aromatic profile. For fans of Sauvignon Blanc, our store features other Portuguese options like Curvos Sauvignon Blanc and Fiuza Sauvignon Blanc. These wines highlight local terroir and bright minerality.
Quinta do Gradil Saltimbancos Sauvignon Blanc 2021 – The Saltimbancos Story
The Saltimbancos label is about adaptation and character. Quinta do Gradil notes that each variety reacts differently. In their words, “each character in this range of itinerant Saltimbancos will appear whenever justified”. In the 2021 vintage, its unique character shines through. The estate benefits from clayey soils and Atlantic breezes at the Serra de Montejunto foothills, giving the wine natural freshness. For example, the vineyards lie on clayey soils and steep Montejunto slopes. The Atlantic sun and ocean breezes add natural freshness and acidity to the wine.
Whether you love Portuguese white wines or are exploring Lisbon wines, this Sauvignon Blanc is a must-try from our collection. Its bright citrus and herbal profile, balanced by oak, delivers a refined and memorable experience. Add this Lisbon Sauvignon Blanc to your cart and experience Quinta do Gradil’s winemaking expertise.
Winemaking Excellence
The 2021 vintage underwent fermentation and aging for nine months in a combination of new and used French oak barrels, some featuring robinia wood tops. This meticulous process imparts depth and complexity to the wine, enhancing its aromatic profile and mouthfeel.
