2020 Picowines Gruta das Torres Arinto dos Açores white

The Picowines Gruta das Torres white wine, produced exclusively from the Azorean Arinto grape variety from the century-old vineyards of Criação Velha, just 420 metres from the sea, fermented with indigenous yeasts in a French oak vat.

After ageing on the fine lees for 7 months, it also underwent bottle ageing in the Gruta das Torres (a 1,500-year-old lava cone) for 15 months at a depth of 17 metres. It has a greenish-yellow colour, revealing volcanic notes of fresh grapefruit and lime, with hints of gunpowder and sea air. On the palate, a journey of intense freshness and enveloping layers, culminating in a long, savoury finish.

The Cooperativa Vitivinícola da Ilha do Pico was founded in 1949 when local producers got together to try and recover the noble grape varieties and culture of the stone corral vineyard, which is now classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. Over the years, more members have joined this cause, now numbering 250, including women, men, and families who dedicate their lives to their passion and a centuries-old art. Today, with 70 years of history, it is the oldest wine producer in the Azores that continues to respect and preserve the traditions of winemaking. This alliance constitutes the quality of the wines created on Azorean soils.