Quinta de Curvos
The Quinta de Curvos, located in Cerqueiral, Forjães, is considered one of the lushest estates in Minho and has a history filled with notable events. Around 1600, the estate, then known as Quinta de Santa Marinha, was owned by Manuel Belo and his wife Ana Ribeiro. In 1882, the property was purchased by Commander Domingos Gonçalves de Sá, a native of the nearby parish of Aldreu and a resident of Porto. Later, on 8th December 1916, the Quinta de Curvos passed into the hands of António Rodrigues Alves de Faria.
Rodrigues de Faria, originally from Matinho in Forjães, emigrated to Brazil at just 14 years old, reportedly as a stowaway in the hold of a cargo ship. He made his fortune in Brazil and returned to his homeland, where he became a generous benefactor not only in his local area but also across many parts of Minho. His ownership marked the height of Quinta de Curvos’ prominence. Rodrigues de Faria passed away on 10th August 1949, leaving no direct descendants, and his vast fortune was divided among close relatives.
Unable to manage the estate, the heirs decided to sell Quinta de Curvos in the 1960s. It was acquired by José Pereira Falcão, a real estate trader from Lisbon. In the 1970s, the estate was sold again to an Englishman who, unfortunately, destroyed the manor house, a romantic Portuguese architectural gem, to replace it with a less remarkable structure. This act of destruction was harshly criticised, symbolising the loss of a cultural and regional icon.
Following the 1974 Revolution, the estate was purchased by the Fonseca family from Braga, who continue to own it.
The “Quinta de Curvos” Vinho Verde is a combination of aroma and spritz, moderately alcoholic, and highly sought after, especially during warmer months. Its freshness and special quality come from musts moderately rich in sugar but high in acidity, with low pH and sufficient nitrogen content, enabling smooth and complete fermentations. Controlling the temperature increase during fermentation is key to achieving maximum quality.
One of the secrets of Vinho Verde lies in the choice of grape varieties, which define the wine’s most distinctive characteristics. To meet the standards of the Vinho Verde Region’s Viticulture Commission, producers must only use recommended or authorised grape varieties. At Quinta de Curvos, the selected varieties are:
- For the White Vinho Verde: Loureiro, Trajadura, and Pedernã.
- For the Red Vinho Verde: Vinhão and Borraçal.
Although different, these grapes result in a similar wine style: fresh, fruity, and slightly acidic. The white Vinho Verde is citrus in colour and is best enjoyed with meals, typically accompanying fish, seafood, or white meats. It can also be served as an aperitif due to its lightness, freshness, low alcohol content, and characteristic “spritz.” To fully express its qualities, it should always be served at a temperature between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius.
The red Vinho Verde is full-bodied, with a ruby red colour, and pairs well with local meat and fish dishes, such as sardines or “rojões.” Quinta de Curvos is the largest wine producer in the municipality of Esposende, offering the brands Afectos and Quinta de Curvos.
Address: Quinta de Curvos - Lugar de Cerqueiral - Forjães
Phone: +351 964 770 088
