Esteva is an attractive and elegant Douro red wine that combines character and versatility at a very affordable choice, ideal for everyday consumption. Esteva is part of the range of wines of the celebrated Casa Ferreirinha, the brand with the greatest tradition in the production of Douro quality wines and one of the world references of this region.

TASTING NOTES

Esteva 2015 is a bright ruby colour and has an aroma of good intensity. It has floral notes of rockrose, balsamic aromas of cedar and resin and red fruits like strawberry and cherry. On the palate, it has good volume, well integrated acidity giving exceptional freshness and vivacity, polished tannins and floral aromas and well present red fruits. Its finish is very elegant and harmonious.

HARVEST YEAR

2015 was a dry year throughout most of the growth cycle. For example, rainfall in March was around 50% less than the average of the region. The average temperature between April and May was above normal. Three heatwaves were recorded in June and July, with high temperatures above 40oC, impacting on the vines and grape maturation. These factors jointly led to the growth cycle being brought forward 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the area. The precipitation values in September were higher than the average for the region, which helped to balance the final maturation especially for the later varieties. The harvest began, therefore, in the first week of September. The grapes presented at the end of maturation very good and balanced levels of sugar, acidity and phenolic compounds.

Esteva 2015 was primarily vinified at Adega da Quinta do Seixo, using cutting-edge technology, with grapes from our Quintas do Caêdo, Seixo and Porto estates, located in the Pinhão area, as well as with grapes from surrounding areas at a higher altitude. This ensured equilibrium at maturity was naturally obtained, as required for this style of wine with the necessary natural acidity. The bunches were harvested by hand and vinified at the winery of Quinta do Seixo with the most advanced technology. After soft destemming and crushing the grapes were fermented in stainless steel vats, with gentle maceration by means of pumping over, under controlled temperature at 25°C in order to preserve the grape aromas. Maceration is followed by malolactic fermentation in strictly controlled conditions. MATURATION

The wines selected for Esteva 2015 spent the winter at Quinta do Seixo in stainless steel vats. They are subject to low natural temperatures, which contribute to their natural clarification before being transferred and transported to Vila Nova de Gaia. The final blend was based on careful selection and numerous tastings.
STORE

Esteva 2015 is designed for consumption when young. Its quality, however, is maintained for 4-6 years after harvest, provided it is kept horizontally in a