Luis Pato Pé Franco das Valadas 2018

Luis Pato&s Pé Franco das Valadas 2018 is a high water mark red wine from Portugal&s Bairrada region, crafted exclusively from the Baga grape variety. The term "Pé Franco" refers to ungrafted vines, and "Valadas" denotes the specific vineyard site.

Vineyard and Terroir:

* Location: Valadas Vineyard, situated in Óis do Bairro, approximately 7 km southeast of Quinta do Ribeirinho.

* Soil Composition: Chalky clay soils, contributing to the wine&s distinctive minerality.

* Vine Age and Density: Planted in 2004, the 0.4-hectare vineyard features high-density planting with 8,600 vines per hectare.

Vinification:

* Harvest: Handpicked grapes to ensure optimal ripeness and quality.

* Fermentation: Traditional fermentation methods are employed to preserve the grape&s natural characteristics.

* Aging: The wine undergoes maturation in used French oak barrels, allowing for subtle oak integration without overshadowing the fruit profile.

Tasting Notes:

* Appearance: Youthful purple hue, indicating its vibrancy and concentration.

* Aroma: Expressive bouquet of wild berries, cherries, blueberries, complemented by floral notes and a hint of vegetal undertone.

* Palate: Firm structure with lively tannins, showcasing red and blue berry flavors, seamless integration, and a chalky, iodine-infused minerality. The wine exhibits great purity, delicacy, and persistence, with a fresh and precise finish.

Critical Acclaim:

* While specific reviews for the 2018 vintage are limited, previous vintages have received high praise. For instance, the 2015 vintage was awarded a score of 95/100 by wine critic Jamie Goode, who noted its elegance, precision, and well-integrated tannins.

Availability and Pricing:

* Due to its limited production, with only 282 bottles produced in certain vintages, Pé Franco das Valadas is a rare find.