The name Auratus translates to gold (as in "goldfish") like the brilliant color of a glass of this exotic and charismatic wine. One sniff and you know this is not "your Mother's Chardonnay".
In 2002, Marcial Dorado's Quinta Do Feital purchased an estate in Seixas, Portugal across the border from Galicia, Spain. His new estate on the banks of the Minho River grows newly planted Alvarinho and old vine Trajadura. Alvarinho is better known as Albarino in Galicia, and is THE grape of Rias Baixas. Trajadura is often a component of the light and frizzy local wine, Vino Verde.
Auratus is a blend of about 50/50 Alvarinho and Trajadura, unwooded, vinified in all stainless steel. Cases produced: 5,500.
Excellent value ($13). Closure: Real cork Neocork. Alcohol content: 12%.
Style: Aromatic, exotic, unoaked, minerally, dry.
Tasting Notes: Appearance: Light gold. Aromas: Intensely perfumed mandarin orange, lemongrass, and cold blossoms. Medium-bodied, lightly tart and nicely round, the citrusy exotic fruit, ginger spice and minerally flavors command attention, and the finish is crisp and dry.
Comment: Dare to be different.
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