Mary Taylor Dão Branco, Dão, Portugal 2023

Mary Taylor Dão Branco, Dão, Portugal 2023

Mary Taylor partners with Quinta do Covão in the Beira Alta subzone of the Dão, near the village of Sandomil. The vineyards sit on the slopes of the Estrela mountain range, where warm days, cool nights, and granitic soils yield whites of freshness, tension, and age-worthiness. Crafted by winemaker Lúcia Ferreira, this bottling shows the classic elegance and stony signature of the Dão’s high-altitude terroir.

• WINEMAKER: Lúcia Ferreira.

• FARMING: Sustainable farming at Quinta do Covão.

• VARIETY: 35% Encruzado, 32% Malvasia Fina, 19% Bical, 14% Gouveio.

• TERROIR: Beira Alta, Dão. High-altitude vineyards on granite soils along the Estrela mountain range, influenced by continental climate with marked diurnal shifts and fresh river water.

• VINIFICATION: Native yeast fermentation; stainless steel to preserve precision and minerality.

• AGING: Stainless steel with extended lees contact for texture.

• TASTING NOTES: Aromas of green apple, lime, citrus peel, lemongrass, and white flowers layered over salty granite minerality. On the palate, full-bodied yet vibrant, with excellent fruit concentration, high acidity, and a long, complex, impeccably balanced finish. Built for both immediate drinking and mid-term cellaring.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Grilled sardines, seafood rice, salt cod (bacalhau), citrus-dressed salads, and alpine cheeses.

• SCORES:

  • 93 pts, John Gilman (View From the Cellar, 2023): “Bright and complex… vibrant and precise, with outstanding soil signature and balance. Outstanding juice and an absolute steal.” Drinking window 2025–2030+.

  • 92 pts, John Gilman (2020 vintage): “Bright, full-bodied, focused and complex, with a lovely core of fruit and very classy finish.” Drinking window 2023–2040+.

  • 91 pts, Roger Voss (Wine Enthusiast): “Smooth, creamy and full of bright apple and kiwi flavors.”