With a unique business model – resulting from the union of several wine producers to create a joint company –, the Douro-based company Lavradores de Feitoria has been taking one step at a time in order to sustain its growth. Having reached the age of majority in 2018, a strong presence in the national market and distribution in more than 20 markets worldwide, the company has been investing in Asia – with a focus on China and Japan – for the past three years.
It is precisely from Japan that good news arrives. In a country with 127 million inhabitants and where consumer demand is quite high, the 'Lavradores de Feitoria white', from the 2016 harvest, was put to the test at the 'Sakura - Japan Women's Wine Awards' and won a 'Gold Medal'. An achievement that certifies it as a straightforward wine – with a young, fruity and fresh profile – and with an excellent suitability to pair with Japanese cuisine.
Yes, because “selecting wines [from all over the world] that best pair with Japanese cuisine” is one of the objectives of this most important wine competition in Japan. The 'Sakura - Japan Women's Wine Awards' is, as the name suggests, a competition whose jury is made up entirely of women (which in itself presupposes very keen senses!) and which stands out for having a great impact on the market and influence on buyers and consumers in the “Land of the Rising Sun”.
The 'Lavradores de Feitoria white' is made from a blend of three typical Douro grape varieties – Malvasia Fina, Gouveio and Síria – from grapes sourced from the various farms of the producers that make up Lavradores de Feitoria. After vinification, they are fermented and aged in stainless steel, giving this citrus-coloured white a young, fruity and fresh character. The 2016 harvest, which was entered into the competition, reveals good aromatic density, with ripe fruit – plum and melon – and tropical notes, reminiscent of banana. On the palate, the entry is fresh, fruity and elegant. A harmonious wine, with balanced acidity and some minerality, as well as an excellent contrast between freshness and tropicality.
In Portugal, the launch of 'Lavradores de Feitoria white 2018' is set to begin soon. A straightforward wine, on sale in supermarkets and hypermarkets for €4.50, as well as in wine shops, specialist shops and some restaurants from the North to the South of the country and on the islands.
