# Oboé Superior Branco (2024)

- **Producer:** Companhia dos Vinhos do Douro
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Region:** Douro, Portugal
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €19
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, grapefruit, pear, stone fruit, blossom, vanilla, toast, butter, honey, almond

## About this wine

Oboé Superior Branco is a distinguished white wine from the Douro Demarcated Region in Portugal, produced by Companhia dos Vinhos do Douro. Under the guidance of winemaker José Miguel Almeida, this wine represents the superior tier of white winemaking in one of the world's oldest demarcated wine regions. The Douro Valley, renowned for its dramatic terraced vineyards and challenging terroir, yields grapes of exceptional quality and concentration. This particular bottling aims to showcase the elegance and complexity that white wines from this historic region can achieve, reflecting both the unique climate and the meticulous viticultural practices employed.

## Interesting facts

- The Douro Valley is the world's first demarcated and regulated wine region, established in 1756.
- Winemaker José Miguel Almeida is known for his modern approach to traditional Douro winemaking.
- The 'Superior' designation indicates a higher quality tier within the producer's white wine range.

## Food pairing

This white wine, with its medium-plus acidity and bright fruit profile, pairs well with lighter proteins and dishes that benefit from a touch of acidity to cut through richness. The wine's complexity also allows it to stand up to dishes with subtle herbal or creamy notes. Avoid overly aggressive flavors like intense spice or heavy game meats, which would overwhelm the wine's delicate character.

## Wine making process

The Oboé Superior Branco undergoes a careful winemaking process designed to preserve its freshness and aromatic complexity. Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to ensure a balance of acidity and fruit concentration. Following destemming and gentle pressing, the must is fermented at controlled low temperatures, typically in stainless steel tanks, to retain delicate primary aromas. Some portion of the wine may be aged in oak barrels, specifically French oak, for a limited period to add subtle layers of complexity and texture without overpowering the wine's inherent fruit character. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes purity of expression, allowing the unique characteristics of the Douro terroir to shine through.