Adriano Ramos-Pinto founded the eponymous company in 1880, which cultivates over 200 hectares of vineyards in the Douro Valley's prime locations. The current management team—which still includes descendants of the company's founder—ensures the continuity of a company known for the distinctive style of its great ports.
The breathtakingly romantic Douro Valley stretches a hundred kilometers west of the Spanish border. This stretch of land, protected by rugged mountain ranges, is so steep that only 30,000 of the river valley's approximately 250,000 hectares are suitable for viticulture. One of the strictest wine laws in the world regulates port production, from cultivation and production to storage and export. The port wine production area is legally protected by the "Regiao Demarcada." Ruby Ports, cut and then filled after approximately two years of barrel storage, are offered unaged.
During fermentation, pure wine alcohol is added to stop the fermentation. The unfermented sugars give the port a pleasant sweetness. The young port is aged in large barrels to minimize contact with oxygen. It ages in barrels for three years. Once bottled, it is ready to drink.
The aroma is a typical Ruby Port, with lovely hints of blackcurrant and plum, complemented by a touch of cinnamon, candy, and plum. The palate is full-bodied and light, characteristic of a Ruby Port. Beautiful aromas of red fruit, sweet cherries, currants, and abundant raspberries. Delicious as an aperitif, with various cheeses, and sweet desserts.
