Mainova: A Vibrant Young Wine Producer in Alto Alentejo
Nestled in the sun-drenched landscape of Alto Alentejo, Vimieiro is home to a young yet extraordinarily vibrant wine producer - Mainova. Owned by Bárbara Monteiro, the youngest of three sisters (in Portuguese, “mainova” is a colloquialism for “a mais nova”, meaning “the youngest girl”). Even though Mainova might be a new name in the industry, it has successfully etched its mark in the world of Portuguese wines with its great offerings and commitment to the region's rich wine heritage. Today, we dive into Mainova's inspiring journey, its remarkable wines, and the unique wine tourism opportunities that await visitors.
Mainova emerged from the vision of turning a fallow family-owned farm into a thriving vineyard. The fertile soil of Alto Alentejo, paired with the region's ideal climate, provided the perfect conditions for this dream to take root and flourish. Mainova is a seamless blend of traditional winemaking techniques and modern practices. Sustainability is at the core of their operations, with hand-harvested grapes and minimal machinery usage ensuring that the wines echo the purity of nature.
Mainova's Wines
Mainova's repertoire of wines reflects the unique terroir of Alto Alentejo, providing a delightful array of choices for every palate.
Mainova Red: A blend of Aragonez and Trincadeira grapes, Mainova Red is a robust and flavourful wine. The blend brings forth the best of both grapes – the vibrant red fruit flavours of Aragonez and the complexity and spice notes of Trincadeira.
Mainova White: Primarily crafted from the Antão Vaz variety, the Mainova White offers a refreshing and balanced tasting experience. It bursts with crisp citrus and green apple notes, presenting a perfect pair for seafood and light pasta dishes.
Mainova Rosé: Made from Aragonez and other local red grape varieties, Mainova Rosé charms with its vibrant fruitiness and delicate pink hue. It’s an excellent companion for light salads, barbecued dishes, or simply to be enjoyed on its own.
Mainova Reserva: As the flagship offering, the Mainova Reserva showcases the richness of the Aragonez, Trincadeira, and other local varieties. Aged in oak barrels, it adds depth and complexity to the ripe fruit flavours, making it a perfect match for rich meat dishes and strong cheeses.
Mainova offers more than just the opportunity to taste their exceptional wines; it provides a comprehensive wine tourism experience. Visitors can explore the lush vineyards, get an insider’s view of the winemaking process, and even participate in the annual grape harvest, in addition to their expansive olive groves. Tasting sessions guided by knowledgeable staff further enrich the overall experience, helping visitors understand the subtleties of each wine.
Mainova, though a young wine producer, beautifully embodies the spirit of Alto Alentejo, inviting wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to explore the alluring world of Portuguese wines.