Mateus Nicolau de Almeida comes from a celebrated winemaking lineage, being the son of João Nicolau d’Almeida of Ramos Pinto and the grandson of Fernando Nicolau d’Almeida, the founder of Barca Velha in 1952. His upbringing in a vineyard-rich environment propelled him into a global exploration of wines, including significant experiences with Denis Dubourdieu in Bordeaux.
In 1996, while working at Cantenac Brown, Mateus met his wife, Teresa Ameztoy, who also has deep roots in winemaking—her father was with La Rioja Alta, and she served as chief winemaker at Ramos Pinto for 14 years, until 2019. The couple now collaborates on a project that Mateus initiated in 2014 after departing from Muxagat, a winery he established in 2003.
Their venture spans 4 hectares of organic vineyards, supplemented by grapes sourced from other local growers.
Mateus Nicolau de Almeida has produced some notable wines, receiving high ratings:
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Mater-Dôme (Mêda) Branco 2024: Aged in a blend of concrete and 500-liter barrels. This wine possesses a vibrant energy with bright, mineral characteristics, fine spices, and a citrus density balanced with richer grapey notes. Rating: 93/100
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Eremitas Antão do Desserto 2022: Crafted from Rabigato, this wine underwent a process of three hours of foot treading before being raised in concrete. It’s bold, mineral, and stylish with good weight and density. Rating: 93/100
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Curral Teles Vinho Vermelho NV: A blend of the 2020 and 2021 vintages, it features a texture that beautifully showcases sweet, smooth cherry and plum fruits, culminating in a soft and expressive layered red. Rating: 93/100
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Trans-Douro-Express Baixo Corgo 2022: An aromatic wine exuding sweet cherry and plum flavors with an added touch of raspberry, delivering a chalky and fresh profile. Rating: 95/100
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Curral Teles Tinto 2015: This wine is crafted exclusively in stainless steel while providing rich, fresh textures and finesse. It’s both structured and expansive with notable refinement. Rating: 95/100
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Mater-Dôme (Mêda) 2009: This has a unique aging process of 2 years in oak/concrete followed by 13 years in stainless steel. It is finely layered, with a spicy and dense profile while showcasing a delicate evolution over time. Rating: 95/100
For more information, visit their official website: Ameztoy & Almeida