The history of Casal Santa Maria starts on the 18th century when, in 1720, the Main Palace was built. Nonetheless, it was already during the 20th century that, after 100 years without producing wine, a modernization of the winery and some forgotten vineyards took place.
Located near Cape Roca, between the Sintra Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the vineyards are “the most western in Europe”. So, it is not strange the big influence of the ocean on the almost 8 hectares of vines.
characteristics of the terroir
Given the fact that temperature is so homogeneous (during day and night) and there is a low solar exposition, the wine’s maturations are very long and slow, giving the wines unique profiles.
On the other hand, despite the regeneration of the estate in the early 2000’s, some vineyards were in good conditions and were kept. The splendid Colares wines from Casal de Santa Maria, for example, are produced from vines more than 150 years old. Protected from the atlantic winds by a type of canes, vineyards were planted under an old method.
At the time, given the soil is very sandy, there was the need of digging out a 2 meter deep hole to plant the vines. Landslips were common and the legend says that many died buried.
The wines
The wines from Casal Santa Maria are very fresh, aromatic and elegant, and salty notes are common. They show a strong character and complexity, reminding the sea.
En excellent sample of great Portuguese wines.
Find them here!
