Review: Ameal Loureiro

Loureiro is an unknown grape variety to many American wine consumers, but it’s one you may have unknowingly tasted before as it’s found in some Vinho Verde blends. And it’s a variety you may want to become more familiar with, because, well… it’s good!

Perhaps I should say, it’s good when it’s done well. Loureiro is one of those grape varieties that needs the right conditions in order to produce exceptional wine. Those perfect conditions happen to exist where the vineyards for Quinta do Ameal reside, in the Lima River Valley of Vinho Verde — where the proximity to the river create mild climatic conditions and the perfect diurnal temperature shift to create the right balance of acidity and ripeness in the grapes.

The former owner of Quinta do Ameal, Pedro Araújo, recognized the potential for Loureiro and set out to create wines from the grape that would stand out. He released the first vintage of Ameal Loureiro in 1999 and since then has become the standard-bearer for quality Loureiro wine in the region.

The Quinta do Ameal estate was acquired last year by one of Portugal’s largest wine companies, Esporão, who has begun distributing this wine to the US. This is a big win for those of us in the US.

The aromas on this wine are divine! It’s a nice balance of citrus and floral, such as tangerine, Key lime, honeysuckle and orange blossom. It’s also very nice on the palate, vibrant tangerine and lime up front followed with lemon and mineral on the mid-palate and finish. The mouthfeel is nice and the acidity is good. The finish is moderately long. This is a very food-friendly wine.

Wine: Ameal Loureiro
Varieties: 100% Loureiro
Vintage: 2019
Alcohol: 11%
Rating: 90
Average price: $18.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.

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