In the northern part of Bairrada, where Quinta d’Aguieira is located, Atlantic breezes sweep gently over rolling hills. We are near Valongo do Vouga, and here, the morning mists of winter rise to levels that many would find hard to believe. It is a special microclimate within the region, revealing a truly unique terroir.
The potential of this estate to produce exceptional wines has long been recognized. From the Viscount of Aguieira to the Count of Águeda, the noble lineages that have passed through these lands have done significant work to elevate agriculture and the winemaking potential here, wines that have, for decades, been renowned throughout the country for their quality.
In this blog article, we invite you to discover the singular expression of Touriga Nacional at Quinta d’Aguieira.
The singular expression of Touriga Nacional at Quinta d’Aguieira
Since 1997, Aveleda has been dedicated to observing and enhancing this terroir. Through careful attention to the estate and a deepening understanding of its characteristics, António Guedes realized that the combination of a climate with shifting humidity levels and a diversity of soils created not just one but several microterroirs. While these conditions may not favor the ripening of certain grape varieties, such as Baga, they are extraordinary for others, especially Touriga Nacional.
This noble grape, which captures so much of what defines Portuguese terroir, thrives in the vineyards of Quinta d’Aguieira. Though traditionally associated with the Douro and Dão regions, here it reveals a different expression, balancing vigor and elegance with a distinctive personality. It is not just the freshness, humidity, and mosaic of soils that allow this unique expression, but also the remarkable diversity of Touriga Nacional clones found here.
In this microclimate—where Atlantic freshness tempers the summer heat—this small-clustered, dark-berried grape shows exceptional complexity. And that complexity is further amplified by the soil diversity and what can best be described as a true field blend of Touriga Nacional.
Why call it a field blend if it’s just one grape variety?
Because in these vineyards, planted over 40 years ago, there is a wide array of clones, brought from places as diverse as the Nelas Viticulture Station, the Dão region, and the Douro. All are interplanted in the same plots, harmoniously complementing one another. The younger vines, about 20 years old, add vigor and tannic concentration, revitalizing the final blend.
This is why Arco d’Aguieira and Quinta d’Aguieira Red wines are so expressive, complex, and have extraordinary aging potential. In Arco d’Aguieira Tinto, Touriga Nacional presents a more open, elegant profile with notes of wild berries and spice. In Quinta d’Aguieira Tinto, the same grape shines with striking intensity and complexity, where concentrated fruit and tannins captivate the palate, giving way to intense floral and fruit notes, enriched by barrel aging.
Touriga Nacional at Quinta d’Aguieira reveals a truly unique personality—one that deserves to be experienced. Every bottle that carries its essence tells a story of patience, deep respect for nature, and an unwavering commitment to quality. These wines are living proof of the virtue of waiting and the value of the diverse vines and ecosystems found throughout Quinta d’Aguieira.
At Quinta d’Aguieira, every bottle is a true tribute to nature, to the complexity of the terroir, and to the elegance that only time can reveal. Discover more about our range of wines here.