Quinta dos Frades
Every time I drove by that road stretch of N222 – yes, the most beautiful road in the world – between Régua and Pinhão, I always turned to whoever was with me and said: look at that incredible property, Quinta dos Frades. With an immense amount of old vineyards, km’s of front river views, diverse sun exposure on the vineyards, an incredible history… Without a doubt, it is one of the iconic Douro Valley estates. To make wine here one day? A dream!
In 2023, the dream become a reality. I know Quinta dos Frades well. Anselmo Mendes has worked here for a long time now. I visited the estate often with him during his work sessions and was always delighted with the wines I tasted.
Objectively, Quinta dos Frades is one of the most essential and imponent Douro estates. Well known by all Douro people, it is a pride for the ones living around the estate, and it is famous for the exquisite wines it can produce. The winning formula is simple: an extensive heritage of old vineyards, 20ha of which are over 100 years old. There are some recent plantings, but speaking of new vineyards at Quinta dos Frades translates into 40 year old plots. North sun exposure, traditional granite lagares, riverfront… And an incredible 100% of the area has the A letter classification by IVDP.
With the owner’s family’s invitations to assume the project’s oenology in partnership with Anselmo Mendes, an old dream is fulfilled. The dream in which I get to partner with my great master and integrate the team in such a special place. But now, all hands are on board for the hard work because the responsibility is immense in such a place. It is one of keeping making history.
