From the mastery of its winemaker: two debuts in the Domingos Soares Franco Private Collection

José Maria da Fonseca has just announced a quartet of novelties in the Domingos Soares Franco Private Collection – two debuts with the new references DSF Castelão 2015 and DSF Syrah 2021; and two new harvests of the wines DSF Moscatel Roxo Rosé 2023 and DSF Verdelho 2023. This range of wines reflects the experimental nature of winemaker Domingos Soares Franco and perfectly embodies the passion, creative spirit, and dedication that Domingos brings to his creations, for an authentic experience.

As a result of the commitment and importance that the Castelão grape variety holds for José Maria da Fonseca, a 100% Castelão varietal could not be missing from this collection. With a production of 6,000 liters, the Private Collection DSF Castelão 2015 is a red wine with a deep red color and brownish hints. On the nose, it exhibits aromas of eucalyptus and spices, as well as a more elegant and astute side. On the palate, it presents itself as a rustic wine with good acidity and balance. The tannins are present but smooth, making it a wine with excellent aging potential, up to 15 years after bottling.

Complementing the region’s choice red grape variety, the second release is the Private Collection DSF Syrah 2021. With a deep red hue, it presents aromas of black fruits such as blueberry, bergamot, wild blackberry, and spices. On the palate, it is velvety, balanced, fruity, with some black pepper. It has good acidity and present, though smooth, tannins. With a production of 9,000 liters, it is also a wine with longevity.

Regarding the new harvests, the Private Collection DSF Moscatel Roxo Rosé 2023 is a wine characterized by freshness and uniqueness, as it is produced using a noble and very rare grape variety. With aromatic persistence of white roses and jasmine, this rosé presents a very light petroleum color and reveals a fresh and balanced palate. It is a wine to be consumed young and ideal to accompany light meals, oriental dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Finally, the Private Collection DSF Verdelho 2023 is a varietal with a lemon-yellow color and greenish tones, presenting aromas of orange blossom, lime, green tea, and lantana. This white wine presents a very fresh palate with a prominent and well-integrated crisp acidity with the fruit. Its finish is medium and it should be consumed young. “In all the harvests of the Private Collection, I have total freedom and creativity to decide which wines I will make and how I will make them. This allows me to draw on various ideas and inspirations, resulting in unique and distinctive wine creations,” says Domingos Soares Franco.