Quinta de Chocapalha Castelao

Quinta de Chocapalha is a true family business, owned by Alice and her husband, Paulo Tavares da Silva, since the 1980s. From the very beginning, they invested directly in the vineyards and the winery. And that was a wise move. They have grown into a successful winery with a wide range of quality wines.

The success of the Quinta de Chocapalha winery

The 45 hectares of vineyards are located just north of Lisbon and fall under the DO Vinho Regional Lisboa. The vineyards were already known as excellent vineyards in the 16th century. In 2000, the most recent plantings reached maturity, and the quality of the fruit had significantly improved. At that time, most of the production was sold to larger cooperatives. However, with the arrival of their daughter Sandra, who quickly established her reputation as an exceptionally talented winemaker, the family decided to further renovate their winery and begin producing their own wines.

14 months of wood aging for Quinta de Chocapalha Castelao

The vineyards are planted with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as typical Portuguese varieties such as Arinto, Verdelho, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Castelão. And the latter grape, coincidentally, plays a starring role in this red wine. This wine comes from 29-year-old vines, planted in clay-limestone soils with south-north exposure. Harvesting was done manually in 20-kilo boxes. The grapes are destemmed in the winery and undergo preferential fermentation at low temperatures for 12 hours. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats, temperature-controlled at no higher than 26 degrees Celsius, for 10 days. The wine is aged for 14 months, 50 percent of its volume in second- and third-use French oak barrels. Quinta de Chocapalha Castelão has a radiant purple color with a seductive nose of fresh raspberries, ripe cherries, and subtle notes of cocoa. The silky tannins and supple body provide excellent balance and elegance on the palate. Excellent with all types of meat dishes, especially grilled meats.