Taboadella - A Gem From The Dão Region
Tucked away in the picturesque Dão region of Portugal, Taboadella is not just a winery; it’s a journey through time and tradition, where the art of winemaking has flourished since Roman times. This historic estate, expertly stewarded by the Amorim family since the 19th century, sits majestically in the Serra da Estrela mountains, encompassing 40 hectares of high-altitude vineyards that benefit from granitic soils. These conditions impart a distinctive minerality to their remarkable wines, each bottle vividly expressing the essence of its unique terroir.
At Taboadella, a commitment to craftsmanship shines through. The winery focuses on indigenous grape varieties such as Encruzado, Touriga Nacional, and Jaen, blending time-honored techniques with modern innovations to create wines that are elegance personified—complex yet refreshing, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the land. In this pursuit, sustainability is paramount; the team honors both the environment and the heritage of the estate, ensuring the preservation of its breathtaking landscape for generations to come. The winery itself stands as a testament to contemporary architecture, designed by Carlos Castanheira to harmonize seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
Beyond the vineyard, Taboadella offers immersive wine tourism experiences, inviting visitors to wander through the vines, unravel the mysteries of the winemaking process, and indulge in the exquisite wines that emerge from this remarkable estate.
One of their standout creations is the Taboadella Reserva Encruzado 2023, crafted entirely from the native Encruzado grape. This wine is a symphony of aging techniques—40% rests in used 500-liter French oak barrels, another 40% ages in cutting-edge cement Tulipe tanks, and the remaining 20% in stainless steel tanks, all for a period of seven months.
In the glass, it reveals a brilliant, clear pale lemon hue with a hint of green. The nose is an enchanting bouquet of intense citrus fragrances—zesty lemon and grapefruit, intermingled with fresh green apple and white peach. As you swirl, delicate notes of honeysuckle and jasmine emerge, intertwined with a subtle minerality reminiscent of wet stone, while a whisper of thyme adds a savory depth.
On tasting, the Taboadella Reserva Encruzado is a refreshing delight. Its vibrant acidity invigorates the palate, and a silky texture with a rounded mouthfeel exudes youthful exuberance. The citrus notes from the aroma resound on the palate, complemented by a core of ripe pear and a gentle salinity that accentuates the minerality. The finish is long and persistent, where cascading citrus and mineral notes linger enchantingly, underscored by a hint of subtle bitterness that invites curiosity and contemplation.
With each sip, this wine expresses the rich character of the Dão region and celebrates the versatility of the Encruzado grape, elegantly balancing vibrant acidity with a luxurious texture and a complex aromatic profile. Taboadella's wine is truly a captivating experience, a testament to the artistry and heritage of Portuguese winemaking.
