At a glance

Producer

Quinta de Covela

Region

Vinho Verde, Portugal

Grape variety

Avesso

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

€17-€30 (retail when available), auction/secondary market pricing varies

Tasting profile

Notes of candied citrus, dried apricot, almond, gentle honey, evolving into waxy and mineral tones. Oxidative hints likely.

Evolution: Fresh Avesso shows pear, apple, herbs, and floral aromas; 2013 now producing more mature, tertiary elements.

At peak: Complexity peaking 2015-2016; now more mature, with oxidative and nutty nuances possible.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high

Tannins

Very low (typical of Avesso, a white grape)

Alcohol

Medium (typically 12-13%)

Aging potential

Modest; best consumed within 3-5 years of vintage, but high quality can yield more development

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2030

Optimal window

2018 to 2033

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Most bottles likely fully mature or slightly declining; fresh bottles may still show structure and aromatic interest

Avesso from top producers like Covela can age with interest for 3-5 years post-vintage, but generally will not improve past 7-8 years. 2013 is likely beyond peak freshness, but well-preserved bottles may still show depth.

Food pairing

Aged cheese, cod with creamy sauces, roast poultry, richer seafood, or as an aperitif to appreciate mature aromatics.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Minimal chemical inputs, controlled yields, manual harvesting, cover cropping, solar energy use in winery, lightweight glass, local sourcing for supplies, integrated pest management.

Quinta de Covela has led the sustainability movement in Vinho Verde, with strong emphasis on soil health, biodiversity, and energy efficiency. Their sustainable certifications are credible, though this wine is not fully certified organic or biodynamic. Packaging and transportation choices are conscious, resulting in an above-average score for the region and style.