Soalheiro Clássico Alvarinho 2024

The Soalheiro Clássico Alvarinho Vinho Verde 2024, produced by Luís Cerdeira, who is widely regarded as one of the surest pairs of hands when it comes to Alvarinho and is often described as a standard-bearer for the variety in Portugal.

The 2024 vintage is particularly special, marking the 50th anniversary of the first vines planted at Soalheiro. Yet despite all those years of evolution, this remains the estate’s most classic expression of single-varietal Alvarinho — the wine that started it all for the family back in 1982.

And I can also confirm that we're not the only ones celebrating this special Portuguese release, with the highest profile wine writers, competitions and wine guides all in amazement about this new wine, with mighty praise coming especially from the Decanter World Wine Awards who awarded this an outstanding 97 Points and Best in Show from Portugal confirming its status as one of Portugal’s great benchmark whites!

''Our Portuguese panel has been alive to the vibe from Moncão et Melgaço in Vinho Verde for some years now, previously a Best in Show in our 2021 competition, so it was gratifying to see this benchmark example cruise its way back into this year’s selection. Once again coming from the Soalheiro winery, the joy of Alvarinho, is that it adds an extra aromatic note of floral charm here. Your journey into the wine is as much venturing into flower garden as it is forest glade. The palate is impressive: it’s svelte and textured, with density to match the wine’s natural drive and freshness. '' 97 Points & Best on Show, Decanter World Wine Awards 2025

''Gently perfumed, with fresh apple and the merest hint of jasmine on the nose, lithe and steely, immediately appealing with the delicacy of a freshly picked apple lingering on a crystalline finish. It is magical that a wine so tantalising it its youth can age with such grace and gain poise in bottle.'' 18.5/20, Richard Mayson

''Invitingly fragrant with stone fruit and citrus and a light floral note, this part of the region giving fruit that reminds me of apricots and refreshingly high acidity – thanks to the sunny microclimate. The lees ageing has given a roundness in the mouth that balances the acidity. Bright, pure and with the potential for long ageing.  In addition to the roundness, there is a slight friction in the texture that adds another layer to this wine – more than just lovely fruit. Long finish with a touch of spice. Drink to 2032." Julia Harding, JancisRobinson.com