2024 Azores Wine Co., DO Pico Acores, Arinto dos Acores

Azores Wine Co.'s Arinto dos Açores stems from indigenous vines, planted in the volcanic basalt bedrock of DO Pico, defying conventional soil definitions, their low yields managed within ancient currais protecting against Atlantic winds. Winemaker António Maçanita employs a non-interventionist philosophy, ensuring the hand-harvested grapes are whole-bunch pressed and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel. Post-fermentation, the wine ages for eight to ten months on fine lees in horizontal tanks, a technique that amplifies texture through increased surface contact. This rigorous, terroir-driven methodology results in an Arinto dos Açores consistently defined by a bracing acidity, profound saline minerality, and a precise structural tension.