History
A Legacy Rooted in History
In the heart of Portugal's Vinho Verde region, nestled in the rolling hills of Amarante, lies the historic Quinta de Casal Novo, a winery with a story as rich and complex as the wine it produces. Established in 1841, the estate originally dedicated itself to cattle farming for decades, shaping the land and the lives of those who called it home. But beneath the surface of this pastoral life, a quiet revolution was brewing—one that would defy the traditions of the region and create a legacy that endures to this day.
A Wine Unlike Any Other
In a land famous for its effervescent wines, Quinta de Casal Novo stood apart. The wine produced here was different: still, uncarbonated, and unlike anything else in the Vinho Verde region. For centuries, this distinct wine was viewed with skepticism, even disdain, by those who couldn't understand why it didn't sparkle like the others. But what many did not know was that this wine was a closely guarded secret, produced in small quantities and cherished by the family that made it.
Guardians of a Secret Tradition
The story goes that the wine was crafted in the quiet cellars of the estate, away from prying eyes. Only the grandparents and great-grandparents knew the precise method, selecting the finest grapes from the Alvarinho and Azal vines that thrived on their land. The result was a wine so special that it was reserved for the family's personal enjoyment and as gifts for close friends. For the public, the estate followed the norm, producing the popular sparkling Vinho Verde, but behind closed doors, the true essence of Quinta de Casal Novo was being lovingly preserved.
A Tradition of Exclusivity
This tradition of secrecy and exclusivity has continued to this day. The wine of Quinta de Casal Novo is still produced in very small quantities, adhering to the original principles of quality and dedication to friendship. Each bottle is a testament to the care and passion that goes into its making. The estate only produces the wine in years when the harvest meets their exacting standards, ensuring that every sip is a reflection of the land's finest qualities.
An Invitation to a Select Few
To honor this legacy, the winery has maintained a unique tradition: every customer who purchases this wine becomes part of an exclusive registry, a book of owners that grants them lifelong access to the most special vintages of the estate. This is not just a wine; it is a connection to a centuries-old tradition, a piece of history that is shared among a select few.
Two Expressions of Perfection
The wine comes in two distinct versions: one aged in barrels, offering deep, complex flavors, and another without barrel aging, highlighting the pure, vibrant essence of the grapes. Both versions capture the spirit of Quinta de Casal Novo, a wine that defies convention and celebrates the bond between those who cherish it.
A Quiet Rebel with a Bold Legacy
In a region known for its sparkling wines, the still wine of Quinta de Casal Novo is a quiet rebel, a symbol of tradition, friendship, and the enduring legacy of a family who dared to be different.