Review: 2020 Ameal Loureiro

Vinho Verde is a wine region that is widely misunderstood and underappreciated in the U.S. You’ve probably had a Vinho Verde at some point and it was probably a really cheap, simple wine, possibly with a slight effervescence from gas added to the wine. And it was probably not that special. Sure, that style of wine has it’s place. But what many people don’t understand is that not all Vinho Verde is made in that style. Vinho Verde can also be a serious wine, and when it is it’s stupendous!

The owners and winemakers of Quinta do Ameal are trying to change perceptions of what Vinho Verde can be. They approach Vinho Verde as a serious wine, as evidenced in this 100% Loureiro. This is not some cheap, simple wine. It’s a well crafted wine, with excellent structure. It’s delicious to drink now, but also would age surprisingly well.

Esporão, the company that owns Quinta do Ameal, just acquired the property in 2019. The former owner of Ameal, Pedro Araújo, spent 9 months transitioning knowledge about Vinho Verde, the Ameal vineyards and the Loureiro grape variety to Esporão lead winemaker, José Luis Moreira da Silva. Although da Silva was primarily focused on red wines prior to this acquisition, he has become a fan of Loureiro for its acidity, aromas and ageing potential.

There are several different grapes permitted in Vinho Verde, but the best wines from the region are made from a select few of those varieties. Loureiro is one of those exceptional grape varieties from this region. By producing a Vinho Verde from 100% Loureiro, Quinta do Ameal truly showcases the potential of this grape. In the words of da Silva, “The winemaker should have a silent signature,” meaning his goal is to showcase the grape and the terroir as purely as he can.

From what I can tell, he’s doing a wonderful job of that. I previously reviewed the 2019 vintage of Ameal Loureiro and it was every bit as delicious as the 2020 vintage. While there are some slight differences between the vintages, both represent Loureiro beautifully.

Tasting Notes

Floral aromatics, like honeysuckle and orange blossom, abound on the nose of this wine! Those are supported by citrus aromas as well. The palate delivers bright lemon along with salty and flinty minerals. The acidity is great and the mouthfeel is nice. It has a nice, clean finish with a continuation of the lemon and mineral flavors.

Wine: Ameal Loureiro
Varieties: 100% Loureiro
Vintage: 2020
Alcohol: 11.5%
Rating: 90
Average price: $18.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.