# Alvarinho Contacto (2023)

- **Producer:** Anselmo Mendes
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Alvarinho
- **Region:** Vinho Verde, Portugal
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, lemon, peach, grapefruit, apricot, pastry, bread dough, honey, almond

## About this wine

Anselmo Mendes Alvarinho Contacto 2023 is a white wine from the Vinho Verde DOC in Portugal, specifically the Monção e Melgaço sub-region. Produced from 100% Alvarinho grapes, the wine's name, 'Contacto,' refers to a brief period of skin maceration during winemaking. This technique, along with the collaboration with Symington Family Estates, contributes to its distinctive profile. Anselmo Mendes is recognized as a leading white wine producer and innovator in the Vinho Verde region.

## Interesting facts

- Alvarinho is also known as Albariño in Spain.
- The name 'Contacto' means 'contact' in Portuguese.
- This wine is a collaboration with Symington Family Estates.
- Anselmo Mendes is a pioneer in Vinho Verde winemaking.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through richer textures and complements seafood. Its minerality and subtle bitterness can echo or contrast with certain ingredients, while its body stands up to moderately complex dishes.

## Wine making process

The Anselmo Mendes Alvarinho Contacto 2023 is produced using 100% Alvarinho grapes. Following hand-harvesting and destemming, the grapes undergo a short period of skin maceration. Fermentation takes place at controlled low temperatures, ranging from 14-22°C. The wine is then aged for a minimum of three months on fine lees, with regular stirring (bâtonnage) to develop its texture and complexity. Aging occurs in stainless steel tanks.