Quinta do Vale D. Maria
Quinta do Vale D. Maria
AboutQuinta do Vale D. Maria
Quinta do Vale D. Maria overlooks the Rio Torto in the Cima Corgo, with records of the estate dating to 1868. For more than a century it supplied grapes to Port producers, until Joana Lemos van Zeller and Cristiano van Zeller took over in 1996 and began making wines under the estate’s own name. The range includes Douro still wines and Port; the property became part of the Portuguese family company Aveleda in 2017.
The old, mixed vineyards lie on steep slopes, and the grapes are picked by hand. Traditional granite vats are used for some of the wines.
Quinta do Vale D. Maria 2000 Vintage Port
Portuguese Fortified
Deep purple-red in colour, with concentrated aromas of ripe raspberry and black cherry. The palate is powerful yet composed, bringing dense mature fruit over ripe, finely textured tannins. Freshness keeps the sweetness balanced, while the fruit remains clear through a very long finish. Stand upright, decant carefully and serve with Stilton, walnuts or dark chocolate.
Quinta do Vale D. Maria 1997 Vintage Port
Portuguese Fortified
Cacao and dark chocolate lead a mature bouquet, joined by mint, dried herbs and a subtle savoury edge. Medium-bodied and balanced, the palate combines sweet fruit with round tannins and measured freshness. The finish is long, complex and gently bittersweet. Stand upright and decant carefully, then serve slightly cool with walnuts, blue cheese or dark chocolate.