Casa Ferreirinha was established in the Douro back in the 18th century. For over 250 years they have been producing classic wines in this region of northeast Portugal. Known for its harsh winters and red hot summers, the terrain and the climate are demanding. From this landscape comes the fabled Barca-Velha, a blend of indigenous red grapes that is world renowned. Made only in select years, only four vintages have been released since 2020. The 2011 will set you back about $550 per bottle. That is not what we’ll be reviewing in this article however.
We have three bottles from Casa Ferreirinha to review, two reds and one white. They range from entry level to a more premium blend. Here they are:
2019 Casa Ferrierinha Papa Figos Vinho Branco – this is a rich and substantial white wine. Coming in at 13% alcohol, the wine is
a medium golden color with green hues. On the nose you get apple and stone fruit, including pear as well as a strong minerality. The same profile comes through on the palate. The wine is clean, crisp and bone dry. It’s almost like a good Kabinett Riesling in some ways. Very good overall. SRP is $14
2019 Casa Ferrierinha Callabriga – this wine is a premium red blend, 14% alcohol, and very dark, purple red in color. Long legs cascade down the glass as a rich nose of blackberry, black pepper, tobacco and menthol emerge. It is full bodied with a beautiful fruit core. Medium+ tannins build throughout. There is good acid and balance and it is very long. Overall this is an excellent wine. I would decant for an hour before serving. $35 SRP and worth it.
2021 Casa Ferrierinha Papa Figos Vinho Tinto – this is the red companion to the white wine above. As an interesting note, the Papa Figos is one of the rarest birds in the Douro, a brightly colored, migratory bird which
arrives right around time for the vines to blossom. In this case the wine is a dark purple red in color, with a hint of barnyard right after opening. That blows off quickly and the nose is filled with ripe red fruit, raspberry being prominent. The core on the palate is all fruit. Good acid keeps it fresh. It has medium body, tannins and length. Overall a juicy and very drinkable red wine and good value at $14 SRP.
The wines reviewed here are all good values at their respective suggested retail prices. The Callabriga is clearly in another league compared to the other two. All are worth trying.
A votre santé!
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