The
Vinho Verde Region, in the northwest of Portugal, is renowned for its lush landscape and temperate, humid climate, perfect for producing fresh and aromatic wines. Most of the region consists of granite soils; however, a schist band runs through it. Within this band, Aveleda owns three vineyard plots of the Alvarinho grape variety. Since 2020, Aveleda has had two Alvarinho wines in its portfolio, whose sole difference lies in the soil where the vines are grown. Tasting them and perceiving their different aromas and flavors is a way of understanding the influence that various soil types can have on a wine made from the same grape variety. It's the magic of viticulture and winemaking at work, resulting in two fascinating wines.
Granite Soils
Granite soils are predominant in the Vinho Verde region. This type of soil is generally nutrient-poor and has good drainage, forcing the vines to deepen their roots in search of water and minerals. This extra effort results in grapes that develop a greater concentration of flavors and a more vibrant acidity.
Wines from granite soils are typically described as fresh, mineral, and elegant, with marked acidity and purity of fruit that translates into citrus and floral aromas. The minerality of these wines is often compared to wet stones or flint, a characteristic highly appreciated by wine connoisseurs.
Aveleda Solos de Granito
Intense, elegant, and persistent, the
Aveleda Solos de Granito 2022 displays a harmonious balance between minerality and tropical pineapple notes. Originating from granite soils, this wine reveals an aromatic intensity and palate precision that reflect the purity of the terroir.
Schist Soils
Although schist soils account for less than 10% of the Vinho Verde region, they offer a fascinating contrast. Schist is a metamorphic rock that forms in thin layers, allowing the soil to heat up more quickly and retain heat, promoting more uniform grape ripening. Since it is easier to break, the plant’s root system can penetrate deeper, and water retention is higher.
Wines from schist soils tend to be fuller-bodied and more complex. They maintain the characteristic freshness of Vinho Verde wines but with a different depth and aromatic profile. The mineral notes here are more earthy and less incisive than in granite wines, complemented by nuances of ripe fruit and spices.
Aveleda Solos de Xisto
With a fresh and elegant aroma,
Aveleda Solos de Xisto stands out for its pronounced notes of ripe tropical and citrus fruits. On the palate, it presents a velvety, balanced profile, accompanied by an extremely refined freshness. Its remarkable aromatic concentration finishes with a long and harmonious aftertaste.
Comparing the Experiences
Tasting wines from granite and schist soils in the Vinho Verde Region is an experience that allows you to appreciate the
influence of terroir on wine. While granite wines are more direct and vibrant, schist wines offer a richer, more complex experience. Both types of soil contribute to the region’s diversity and richness, producing wines that reflect the unique geology and winemaking tradition of Portugal.
When exploring Vinho Verde wines, it's worth trying wines from
both soil types. This way, you can understand and appreciate how nature and soil shape each bottle, offering a distinct delight for the palate and a deeper connection to the land from which these exceptional wines come.
We invite you to taste Aveleda Solos de Granito and Aveleda Solos de Xisto side by side and experience the differences for yourself.