Casa Santos Lima – A Century of

Winegrowing in Portugal

Located in Alenquer, some 40 km north of Lisbon, Casa Santos Lima produces quaffable, value-driven wines of excellent caliber. Founded at the turn of the 20th century by Joaquim Santos Lima, one of the most renowned producers and exporters of his day, the estate is now helmed by his granddaughter Maria João and great-grandson José Luis who assumed leadership in 1990. Since then the estate has undergone many technological improvements (to modernize winemaking) as well a quite a bit of replanting, to elevate the quality of the juice.

Casa Santos Lima is an enormous property, spanning some 290 hectares in Estremadura, however the two wines that we represent come from a rad little area called the Monte das Promessas. It is composed of seven gently sloping hills of young vines that range in altitude from 100-200m. They are graced with epic sunshine during the day, yet the nights are cool and fresh, as moderated by the nearness of the Atlantic. Soils are clay and limestone.

The tinto is crafted of two noble French varietals, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as two indigenous Portuguese varietals, Touriga Franca and Castelão. Wines are destemmed then macerated for 28 days on the skins in large vats. Fermentation with natural yeasts, no fining, then 3-4 months in oak before release. Wines are fresh, bright, and great with a chill. 13% Alcohol.

The branco comes from three Portuguese grapes: Arinto (known for its aromatics), Vital, and Fernão Pires. Grapes are destemmed – only free run juice is used for this cuvee. Temperature controlled fermentation with selected yeasts. Though the wine contains 18 g/l RS, the acidity is bright and balances the sugar well. 9.5% alcohol.

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