Bairrada stands out as one of Portugal’s most captivating wine regions, renowned for its red wines crafted from the Baga grape, alongside an emerging selection of impressive sparkling wines and intriguing mineral whites. I had the opportunity to explore the region with Alfonso Sousa, a family member who oversees communication and lends a hand in various capacities. The winemaking is expertly handled by Paul Sousa.
The vineyard spans 12 hectares, with plans to expand to 20 hectares in the near future. While the majority of the plantings are Baga, there is also a variety of mixed white grapes, including Bical, Maria Gomes, Arinto, and Cercial, in addition to a small amount of Merlot.
Sidónio de Sousa Special Cuvée Rosé 2017 Bairrada
A delightful expression of 100% Baga, this sparkling wine has spent five years on the lees and is produced using solely free-run juice. The grapes are harvested at optimal acidity, allowing for picking to commence as early as mid-August. The result is a vibrant, juicy wine, showcasing lovely red cherry flavors complemented by hints of strawberry and citrus. It presents a linear and bright profile with a pleasing pithy note and impressive acidity. Rating: 92/100
Sidónio de Sousa Special Cuvée Branco 2018 Bairrada
This Brut Nature wine is crafted from a blend of Bical, Maria Gomes, and Arinto, also using only free-run juice. It impresses with bright, concentrated notes of pear, apple, and lime, layered with a subtle toasty character. The wine exhibits keen acidity, remarkable purity, and a touch of complexity, with a refreshing lemony finish. An exquisite offering. Rating: 93/100
Sidónio de Sousa Reserva Branco 2021 Bairrada
With an alcohol content of 13%, this wine marked the producer’s inaugural still white offering since 2016. It comprises 93% Bical and 7% Cercial, undergoing 12 hours of maceration in the press. Fermented solely in stainless steel and stirred in the tank, it presents a creamy mouthfeel and a textured profile enriched with abundant citrus, pear, and peach flavors. This wine showcases a lovely texture and depth of fruit, earning a score of 92/100.
Sidónio de Sousa Reserva Tinto 2017 Bairrada
Boasting an alcohol percentage of 13.5%, this red wine matures for one year in a 4000-liter barrel crafted from century-old Portuguese oak. It is concentrated, powerful, and textured, featuring bold flavors of blackberry and black cherry, complemented by a touch of lushness. The wine possesses some tannins that enhance the intensity of the fruit. Though firmly structured, the tannins and acidity are well integrated, resulting in a rating of 93/100.
Sidónio de Sousa Vinho D’Autor Baga 2015 Bairrada
This particular label is designed for wines that are unique and don’t fit into standard categories. The 2015 vintage is the third iteration, having aged for one year in large oak and five years in smaller barrels. It offers a balance of freshness and finesse alongside a concentration of sweet black fruits, supported by firm tannins and a bit of heft, while also maintaining good definition. The wine presents pleasant tannins and acidity along with a touch of elegance, receiving a score of 95/100.
Sidónio de Sousa Vinho D’Autor Baga 2005 Bairrada
The 2005 release was the second of its kind, matured for an impressive ten years in a large barrel. It captivates with delightful aromatics, featuring sweet herbs, black cherries, and blackberries, along with a lovely spicy framework that enhances the sweet fruit character. On the palate, it is concentrated with a core of vibrant sweet cherry and berry flavors, complemented by warm spicy notes. A stunning wine, it represents a beautiful expression of Baga, earning a score of 95/100.