Celebrating tradition and excellence in a vintage Port that reflects the terroir’s elegance and complexity
AVINTES – Sogrape, a leading wine producers, has declared 2022 as a vintage year, introducing the Sandeman Quinta do Seixo Vintage 2022. This exceptional Port joins releases from Porto Ferreira and Offley, continuing Sogrape’s legacy of crafting world-class vintage Ports.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Sandeman has been at the forefront of Port production since 1790, with its vintage Ports gaining acclaim since the 1930s. The declaration of a vintage year is a rare and significant event, reserved only for years of outstanding quality. As Fernando da Cunha Guedes, President of Sogrape, remarked, “Each vintage in this category is the writing of a new and exciting page in the centenary history of Port, a tribute to our ongoing commitment to tradition, quality, and excellence.”
The Heart of the Douro
Quinta do Seixo, Sandeman’s flagship vineyard, lies at the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning terraced landscapes and ideal conditions for Port production. Spanning 71 hectares along the southern bank of the Douro River, the estate’s history dates back to the 17th century.
The vineyard exemplifies the Douro’s traditional and modern winemaking practices, with vines planted on steep slopes and schist-rich soils. Key grape varieties include Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, and Touriga Francesa, with a significant portion of the 2022 vintage blend coming from nearly century-old vines.
Exceptional Conditions for Vintage Port
The 2022 growing season presented unique challenges and opportunities for Douro winemakers. The region experienced hot and dry conditions with minimal rainfall, punctuated by heatwaves that reduced yields but ensured the grapes achieved exceptional ripeness—crucial for the structured tannins of vintage Ports.
A mild September with carefully timed rainfall allowed for balanced grape profiles. The harvest team meticulously selected picking dates to preserve concentration and avoid dilution, resulting in grapes ideal for crafting high-quality vintage Port.
A Complex and Elegant Vintage
Now bottled and aged in oak, Sandeman Quinta do Seixo Vintage 2022 is already being recognized for its exceptional profile. Tasting notes describe aromas of black fruit, balsamic truffle, and undergrowth, paired with firm tannins, crisp acidity, and a long, harmonious finish.
As Luís de Sottomayor, Sogrape’s award-winning winemaker, stated, “Sandeman Quinta do Seixo Vintage 2022 reflects the typical terroir where it comes from. It is a wine that stands out for its elegant, harmonious, and complex profile.”
With its deep roots in tradition and a commitment to excellence, Sandeman Quinta do Seixo Vintage 2022 exemplifies the artistry and heritage of Douro winemaking. As it joins the ranks of iconic vintage Ports, this release reaffirms Sandeman’s place as a beacon of quality in the world of fine wines.
