Vinhas Velhas Tinto 2023 Luis Pato

Luis Pato – Vinha Velhas Tinto 2023

Overview

The Vinha Velhas Tinto 2023 is a red wine produced exclusively from the native Baga grape, sourced from vines averaging 40 years old grown on chalky-clay soils. A first harvest at the end of August was used for sparkling wine (‘Espumante’) production, approximately 2/3 of the grapes, to increase concentration and allow the remaining grapes to fully ripen for the main harvest at the end of September. This wine contains sulphites.

History of the Wine

The Vinha Velhas range highlights Luis Pato’s dedication to preserving old Baga vineyards, which represent a unique genetic heritage in the Bairrada region. The 2023 vintage stands out for elegance and structure, with double harvesting ensuring grapes with perfect balance between acidity, concentration, and varietal aromas. The vinification combines traditional techniques with precise modern methods.

Philosophy in the Vineyard

Luis Pato practices sustainable viticulture focused on the quality of old vines. The 40-year-old vineyards provide complexity, depth, and longevity. Harvesting in two stages maximizes aroma concentration and grape maturation, emphasizing the unique characteristics of chalky-clay soils.

Winemaking Approach

Grapes ferment for 10 days in stainless steel vats to preserve freshness and varietal aromas. The wine then matures for 12 months in used 650-liter oak casks, developing structure, smoothness, and complexity without overpowering the fruit. Each bottle represents a balance of tradition, patience, and technical precision, allowing the wine to age gracefully for over 15 years.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep ruby red with violet reflections.
Aroma: Ripe red fruits, light spice notes, and mineral hints.
Palate: Soft and harmonious, with balanced tannins, vibrant acidity, and a persistent finish reflecting the complexity of old Baga vines.

Food Pairing

Perfect with game and structured red meat dishes. Thanks to its longevity, it can also be enjoyed after several years of aging, pairing beautifully with aged cheeses or rich, flavorful dishes.

Technical Sheet

• Designation: Beiras Regional

• Grape Variety: 100% Baga

• Harvest: First pick at end of August for sparkling wine, main harvest end of September

• Fermentation: 10 days in stainless steel vats at controlled temperature

• Ageing: 12 months in used 650-liter oak casks

• Alcohol: 13% vol.

• Serving Temperature: 16–18 °C

• Contains sulphites

Luis Pato Winery: Innovation and Legacy in the Heart of Bairrada

History of the Winery

The Pato family has been producing wine at Quinta do Ribeirinho since the 18th century, nurturing a deep connection with the land of Bairrada. In 1970, João Pato began bottling wines from his own vineyards, becoming the first winemaker to do so after the region’s demarcation. His son, Luis Pato, inherited this pioneering spirit and in 1980 created his first pure Baga wine, a masterpiece of rare quality, sought after by collectors around the world. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he led a quiet revolution in Portuguese winemaking, introducing innovations such as destemming Baga grapes and aging them in new French oak barrels, while preserving the authenticity of native varieties.

Philosophy in the Vineyard

Luis Pato’s philosophy in the vineyard is built on respect for the soil, climate, and indigenous grapes. His approach combines deep knowledge of the Baga variety with sustainable practices that enhance biodiversity and grape quality. He planted ungrafted Baga vines to rediscover pre-phylloxera wines, and carefully selects single vineyards to express the nuances of each terroir. Precision harvesting allows him to create both sparkling wines from early-picked grapes and rich, concentrated reds from later harvests. Every decision in the vineyard is guided by observation, intuition, and a desire for excellence.

Approach in the Cellar

Inside the cellar, tradition meets innovation. Luis Pato was among the first in Bairrada to use French oak barriques and to destem Baga grapes, producing more refined and elegant wines. His constant experimentation led to creations such as Abafado Molecular sweet wines, the cryo-extraction technique developed with his daughter Filipa, and the production of white sparkling wines from Baga grapes. Each wine reflects a balance between structure and freshness, showing the expressive potential of the region when guided by curiosity and craftsmanship.

Values and Vision

Luis Pato represents the spirit of independence and creativity in Portuguese winemaking. By stepping away from the DOC denomination in 1999, he reaffirmed his commitment to freedom and authenticity, labeling his wines as Regional Beiras. Every bottle tells the story of a family that transformed tradition into modern art, combining precision, courage, and innovation. All wines contain sulfites and express the unique identity of Bairrada through the eyes of one of its most visionary producers.