# Aphros Loureiro (NV)

- **Producer:** Aphros Wine
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Loureiro
- **Region:** Vinho Verde, Portugal
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 11.0%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lime, orange, fennel, apple, blossom

## About this wine

Founded in 2002 by architect and anthroposophist Vasco Croft, Aphros Wine transformed the historic 17th-century Quinta do Casal do Paço estate into a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in Portugal. Located in the Lima sub-region of Vinho Verde, the vineyards sit on deep granitic soils within a south-facing natural amphitheater near the Lima River, strongly influenced by Atlantic breezes. The estate focuses on traditional regional grape varieties cultivated with holistic farming practices.

## Interesting facts

- Aphros was the very first winery in Portugal to achieve certified biodynamic status.
- The name 'Aphros' comes from the ancient Greek word for sea foam, referencing Aphrodite.
- Unlike mainstream Vinho Verde, this wine is bone-dry and made entirely without added carbonation.

## Food pairing

The razor-sharp acidity and saline mineral tone of Loureiro excel alongside delicate, fresh seafood and shellfish. High natural acidity cuts through rich textures like cream sauces or fried fish while perfectly complementing citrus marinades and tangy goat cheese.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested from certified organic and biodynamic vines. The winemaking process involves direct pressing and static decantation in stainless steel vats. Fermentation occurs spontaneously using indigenous yeasts at controlled temperatures between 16°C and 18°C. Malolactic fermentation is strictly blocked to maintain natural acidity. The wine ages on fine lees without bâtonnage for two to four months in stainless steel before filtration and bottling.