Calçada Wines, ‘Mezena’, NV, Vinho Verde (DOC)

'One-Liner'
A light, lively Vinho Verde with fresh citrus, tropical fruit and delicate flowers – gently sparkling, naturally low in alcohol and brilliantly refreshing.

Tasting Note
Pale lemon in colour with a delicate spritz, opening with fresh lime, lemon and crisp orchard fruit alongside softer notes of peach and tropical fruit. Subtle white flowers add aromatic lift, while the palate is light, zesty and wonderfully fresh, with vivid acidity carrying the juicy fruit towards a clean, gently sparkling and thirst-quenching finish.

Country: Portugal
Region: Vinho Verde DOC
Sub-Region: n/a
Grape(s): Loureiro, Arinto, Azal, Trajadura
ABV: 8.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Calçada Wines has been making wine in Amarante since 1917, when António do Lago Cerqueira established the cellars at Quinta da Calçada. More than a century later, the estate remains closely connected to Vinho Verde, with over 50 hectares of vineyards managed under certified sustainable practices. Mezena brings together four of the region’s traditional white grapes – Loureiro, Arinto, Azal and Trajadura – in a deliberately light and uncomplicated style. Cool fermentation in stainless steel preserves their fresh citrus, floral and tropical character, while a subtle natural spritz and just 8.5% alcohol make this an especially bright, easy-going expression of northern Portugal.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Prawn linguine with chilli and tomato
- Vegetarian: Courgette and ricotta fritters with a lemon-dressed salad
- Vegan: Chickpea, Fennel and Orange Salad with Herbs