NV Broadbent Vinho Verde

Full bottle 1,284 g. 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura, 10% Pederna. TA 7.1 g/l, pH 2.92. Made by Bartholomew Broadbent in collaboration with the winemaker at Quinta de Azevedo. Slow fermentation at 16 ºC using a yeast developed in the Azevedo vineyards that was chosen to enhance the Loureiro. Made in the traditional style with the malo suppressed and CO2 injected at bottling to increase the freshness. Non-vintage so that the wine is always freshly bottled, apparently. Screwcap. Lots of little bubbles and very pale. Smells fresh and ‘green’ with notes of lime and green apples. As it warms up, there’s a hint of Loureiro’s more herbal character showing through the citrus and the merest hint of blossom – a combination that reflects the blend of varieties. It’s a while since I’ve tasted such a traditional style. It’s perfectly dry, light and as fresh as a daisy, and lingers well for such a light-bodied but not insubstantial wine. (JH)