Adega do Vulcão

Ameixambar 2023

The fairytale from the Azores in which a whale eats a plum, thus creating the Azores, is the basis for the wine's name: Ameixambar. A unique Azorean wine from two islands: Pico and Faial. Both islands are depicted on the bottle. A unique wine, made from two different soil types and three grape varieties.

Glass White wine glass

Grapes Arinto dos Açores, Verdelho & Terrantês do Pico (field blend)

Flavors Light, fresh, saline components with fresh notes of light citrus such as lemon

Serve 8 - 10 degrees Celsius

Appellation Faial and Pico, IG Açores, Azores, Portugal

Food Excellent as an aperitif, but also an ideal companion for fish, seafood such as mussels, and light meat dishes

Alcohol 12%

Winemaker Guido Mancassola with the help of Alberto Antonini

Background Adega do Vulcão is located on the remote Azorean islands of Pico and Faial, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The winery is run by Guido and Alberto, who focus on volcanic soils and indigenous grape varieties. Their dedication to sustainable and minimal intervention in the vineyard results in wines that are pure and powerfully reflect the character of their origin. The vines grow on black lava soil, often within ancient stone walls, just a few hundred meters from the ocean. The extreme conditions produce wines that are saline, energetic, and full of character.

Vineyards The vineyards are located on two islands: Faial and Pico. Precisely on the division of two tectonic plates. The vineyards on Faial are modern, planted facing the sea (south). The vineyards on Pico are 'currais,' squares enclosed by volcanic stones with a maximum of two vines. These are located on the western side of Mount Pico. Both vineyards are situated 10 to 50 meters above sea level.

In 2016, seven hectares of vineyards were planted in the ashes of an old eruption (1957). The black soil close to the sea and the unique volcanic terroir create an extraordinary wine. The soil is rich in minerals, perfectly draining, and benefits from a special microclimate. Only indigenous grape varieties are planted, as a tribute to their origin. Due to the high average temperature and humidity in the Azores, active pruning is carried out throughout the year. All wines from Adega do Vulcão bear the "naturale pera Açore" quality mark.

Harvest Manual

Vinification Low intervention. The grapes are carefully selected in the vineyard and transported in small crates to the cellar, where they are destemmed and cold-soaked for three days in stainless steel tanks. Fermentation then starts in concrete tanks with indigenous yeasts, at a maximum temperature of 25 °C, to preserve as much fruit as possible. The grapes from Faial are brought to the winery by boat. The wine matures for twelve months in concrete tanks.

Filtering Plate filter

Download PDF