Márcio Lopes Laranja Skin-contact Rebentos 2023

Márcio Lopes, initially an engineer, honed his winemaking skills with Vinho Verde expert Anselmo Mendes in Melgaço and furthered his experience in Australia. Returning to Portugal in 2010, he launched Pequeños Rebentos in Vinho Verde and began vinifying the Loureiro varietal in 2016. Lopes champions low-intervention winemaking, emphasizing natural yeasts and the quality of fruit. His wines, reflecting this philosophy, are notably fresh, vibrant, and true to their terroir.

Vinho Verde, located northwest of Portugal, is a renowned wine-producing region celebrated for its distinctive and refreshing wines. The Minho River borders the region to the north, the Douro River to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. This unique geographical setting contributes to the region's mild and humid climate, ideal for viticulture.

Vinho Verde has developed a rich winemaking tradition over the centuries. The name "Vinho Verde" translates to "green wine," referring to the wines' youthful freshness and vibrant acidity rather than their color. The region's history of viticulture dates back to Roman times, and it has evolved significantly, embracing modern techniques while preserving traditional methods.

The terroir of Vinho Verde is characterized by its granitic soils, which provide excellent drainage, essential for the region's abundant rainfall. The Atlantic Ocean influences the climate, bringing moderate temperatures and high humidity, which contribute to the unique characteristics of Vinho Verde wines. The combination of soil and climate results in wines that are light, crisp, and slightly effervescent.