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| Vesuvio possesses an enviable terroir, the unique interaction of microclimate, soil, aspect and numerous other characteristics which combine to create ideal conditions for the production of consistently superb Port.
The vineyards at Vesuvio are remarkable in part as a result of the steepness and variability of the terrain. The old vineyards were concentrated on only 105 hectares, less than a third of the total property. Quinta do Vesuvio is one of the only Douro quintas to be privileged with vineyards over 25 years old that were planted by variety (most old vineyards are a mix of grape varieties planted side by side). The principal grape varieties are Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca and Touriga Nacional. The average age of the vines ranges from 10 years for the new plantings to 35 years for the old plantings, all of which are “A” rated vineyards – the best.
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At Vesuvio, experimental vineyards can be found, with the latest trellis and pruning methods being tested, along side some of the oldest traditional vineyards in the Douro. Where technological innovations have been introduced, it is in an effort to improve quality without altering the basic methods. The process of treading the grapes remains the same, but the quality of the wine continues to improve.
In addition to grapes, the Quinta produces almonds, honey, olive oil and oranges. Older vines yield fewer grapes than younger ones, but the flavour and intensity of old-vine grapes is much greater. This accounts for the very low yields per vine at the Quinta, which amounts to about 1000 gms per vine. However, due to the size of the estate, annual production is approximately 800 pipes per year (1 pipe =550 litres). All of the grapes are picked by hand.
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With an eye to the future, an extensive new planting of Touriga Nacional vines has been recently completed on the upper slopes of the estate, bringing the total area under vine to 132 hectares. Although notoriously low yielding, Touriga Nacional vines produce grapes of great intensity and excellent quality and are ideal for producing lush, complex Ports.
Today Quinta do Vesuvio is breathtaking to behold. The impressive estate house is surrounded by just over 325 hectares of extraordinary and intricate topography spread across 7 hills of different sizes, characterized by steep inclines and winding valleys. At its highest point Vesuvio is 530 meters above sea level, at its lowest, 130 meters, and this difference occurs over a distance of only 1 km.
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