Cazas Novas Colheita Avesso Vinho Verde – The Renaissance of a Noble Grape

The Cazas Novas Colheita Avesso is an impressive interpretation of modern Vinho Verde, extending far beyond the image of spritzy, simple summer wines. While many wines from this region focus on lightness, the Cazas Novas winery, with the Avesso grape variety, presents a white wine of remarkable structure and aromatic depth. With an alcohol content of 12.5% vol., this wine displays a perfect balance between the characteristic freshness of Northern Portugal and a substantial, almost creamy texture. Those looking to buy a high-quality Portuguese white wine that combines artisanal precision with the mineral energy of the Baião region will find a distinctive soloist in this Avesso.

The Philosophy: Terroir Wine from the Baião Sub-Region

The Cazas Novas winery is located in the Baião sub-region, on the border between the classic Vinho Verde area and the Douro Valley. This transitional location is the heartland of the Avesso grape. In accordance with EU Regulation 1169/2011 (FIC), this wine offers full transparency and stands for winemaking that exploits the potential of Portugal's indigenous grape varieties. It is a wine that convinces not only with primary fruit but also with its mineral tension and oenological clarity.

Sensory Analysis

The analysis of Cazas Novas Avesso reveals a profile characterized by elegance, vibrant acidity, and noble fruit definition.

• Color: In the glass, the wine presents itself in a brilliant, clear lemon yellow with greenish reflections, which emphasize its youthful vitality.

• Aromatics (Nose): The nose is dominated by layers of intense primary aromas:

  • Fruit: Clear notes of stone fruit, especially white peach and apricot, complemented by zesty citrus nuances.

  • Floral Accents: A hint of white flowers and orange blossoms.

  • Minerality: A fine, almost saline minerality, indicating the granite soils of the region.

• Structure & Mouthfeel: On the palate, the wine shows more power than one would expect from a typical Vinho Verde. The texture is smooth, almost oily, giving the Avesso a noble stature.

• Acidity & Balance: The vital acidity is excellently integrated and ensures a vibrant drinking flow. The 12.5% vol. alcohol supports the body without dominating the freshness.

• Finish: The finish is long-lasting, fruit-driven, and ends with a tart, mineral note.

Origin & Terroir

The grapes for this wine come from the terraced vineyards of Baião, a region known for its special climatic conditions.

Soil Structure and Microclimate

The vines root in decomposed granite soils. This lean substrate forces the vines to root deeply and gives the wine its distinctive mineral structure. The climate in Baião is drier and warmer than in the rest of the Vinho Verde region, which helps the Avesso grape achieve its full physiological ripeness, while the cool nights preserve the essential acidity.

Philosophy of Viticulture

Cazas Novas focuses on sustainable viticulture and selective harvesting. The Avesso grape is considered demanding to cultivate, but with proper yield management, it rewards with a complexity that clearly sets it apart from other grape varieties in the region.

Vinification & Aging

The production of Cazas Novas Colheita follows a protocol of maximum gentleness and precision.

• Fermentation: Alcoholic fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. This cool management (approx. 14–16 °C) is crucial to stabilize the volatile fruit aromas and the typical freshness of the Avesso grape.

• Aging: After fermentation, the wine ages for several months on the fine lees (batonnage), which gives it its characteristic creaminess and additional aromatic depth.

Food Pairing & Service

Due to its structure, the Cazas Novas Colheita Avesso is an excellent food companion.

• Specific Dishes: An ideal partner for grilled fish, seafood such as prawns or scallops, and Asian cuisine (e.g., sushi or Thai fish dishes).

• Vegetarian Alternative: Mediterranean salads with feta or risotto with spring vegetables.

• Serving Temperature: Ideally served at 8–10 °C.

• Glassware: We recommend a classic white wine glass with a medium opening.

Technical Details & Mandatory Information

The following overview summarizes all relevant data according to current legislation.

Product Specifications

Average Nutritional Values (per 100 ml)

According to EU Regulation 2021/2117:

Producer & Distributor

Producer:

Cazas Novas

Quinta de Cazas Novas

4640-413 Baião

Portugal