Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã: Portuguese Grape Brandy
Monica Tindall
Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã (ACL), situated in gorgeous Lourinhã in the Lisboa wine region, is a tribute to the long tradition and superb workmanship of brandy-making in Portugal. Founded in 1957, ACL initially produced red and white wines. However, it soon became a pioneering force in producing light wines, expanding its repertoire to include the creation of exceptional brandies.
With a proud membership of over three thousand partners in its early years, Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã now boasts a close-knit group of about two dozen partners dedicated to producing their finest grapes exclusively for ACL. These partners contribute to an annual production of approximately 110 tons of grapes, which are expertly vinified and distilled to yield around 7000 litres of exquisite wine brandy.
The Lourinhã region, about sixty-five kilometres from Lisbon, occupies a central position along the Portuguese mainland seafront. Its agricultural landscape is characterised by sprawling vineyards, pumpkin fields, and orchards, all benefiting from an ideal climate that seamlessly blends influences of the oceanic and Mediterranean conditions. (*Cool fact: it’s also known for its dinosaur fossil discoveries, and there’s even a dinosaur, Lourinhasaurus, a herbivorous sauropod, taking its name from the region.) With an average annual temperature of sixteen degrees Celsius, Lourinhã provides the perfect environment for cultivating vineyards that yield predominantly white grape varieties. These grapes possess unique characteristics due to the region’s exposure and soil composition, making them exceptionally suited for crafting low-alcohol and high-acidity wines. It is from these carefully selected grapes that Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã derives its high-quality brandy.
Historical charters and other records relating to Portuguese viticulture contain references that help date the origins of winemaking in the Lourinh region. In recognition of the region’s outstanding brandy production, Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã received a notable accolade on March 7, 1992. Decree-Law No. Controlled Origin “Lourinhã” established Portugal’s first and only demarcated region exclusively dedicated to producing brandies. This prestigious recognition places the Lourinhã region on equal footing with renowned French brandies such as Armagnac and Cognac, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier brandy-producing regions in Europe. Locals have dubbed the product the third, “nac” – Lourinhnac.
The production of the esteemed DOC Lourinhã brandy encompasses a meticulous process within the demarcated region itself. From grape selection to bottling, every stage is carefully regulated by the Regional Wine Commission of Lisbon, ensuring the utmost quality and authenticity. Approved grape varieties, predominantly Portuguese, such as Alicante-Branco, Boal Espinho, Marquinhas, Malvasia Rei (Seminário), Tália, Fernão Pires, Rabo de Ovelha, Seara Nova, Vital (white), and Cabinda, Castelão, Tinta Miúda (red), are utilised in the vinification process.
The harvest period typically commences in the early days of September, with the exact timing determined by the grapes’ optimal maturation conditions. During this phase, the grapes are transformed into wine with low alcohol content, rich in organic acids, and without adding oenological products like sulphur dioxide. Distillation follows, utilising a continuous system in a copper column that achieves an alcoholic degree ranging from 74º to 77º.
The meticulous aging process is one of the key factors contributing to the exceptional quality of Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã’s brandies. Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã insists on a mandatory minimum aging period of two years before marketing. Moreover, they exclusively employ Portuguese oak, French oak (Allier and Limousin), and chestnut barrels with a capacity of fewer than eight hundred litres, each offering various toasting options, including light, medium, and strong. This careful selection of barrels and aging conditions guarantees the development of rich colours, smoothness, and enticing aromas in the final product. Notably, ACL does not produce brandy that is less than five years old, further exemplifying its commitment to crafting exceptional spirits.
The bottling and labelling process at Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã reflects the attention to detail and traditional methods upheld by the cooperative. ACL exclusively produces DOC Lourinhã XO brandy, and the small-scale production allows for a hands-on approach, including manual labelling. By adhering to these time-honoured techniques, ACL ensures that each bottle represents a unique product with outstanding organoleptic characteristics.
To guide enthusiasts through the world of Portuguese brandies, Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã offers wine tourism experiences. By appointment, visitors can enjoy guided tours that delve into the historical significance of this region as the first demarcated area for Quality Wine Spirits in Portugal. The tour commences in the main room, where the story behind this territory unfolds, accompanied by a comprehensive explanation of the production processes.
A highlight of the visit is the exploration of the cellars, where guests can marvel at the diverse types of barrels and toasting techniques ACL employs. The aging method, integral to the brandy’s uniqueness, is meticulously elucidated. The manual labelling of every bottle can be witnessed firsthand, further enhancing the appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication poured into each product. The ultimate aim of the tour is to provide an exclusive wine experience centred around brandies, encompassing the entire journey from production to the indulgent tasting sessions.
The quality of ACL’s DOC Lourinhã brandy has garnered national and international recognition, amassing numerous prestigious awards. These accolades not only honour Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã but also serve as a testament to the excellence of the entire demarcated region, validating the exceptional nature of their products.
Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã offers an enchanting journey through time and taste for those seeking a glimpse into the world of Portuguese brandies. With its rich history, dedication to traditional production methods, and commitment to exceptional quality, ACL is a beacon of Portugal’s renowned brandy-making heritage. A visit to ACL promises to be an enlightening and palate-pleasing adventure, where every sip reveals the artistry and passion poured into each bottle of DOC Lourinhã brandy.
Adega Cooperativa da Lourinhã
Av. de Moçambique, 2530-111 Lourinhã
Lisboa, Portugal
+351 261 422 107
https://doc-lourinha.pt/
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Love the wine cellars. Like there’s some mystery revolving around them or maybe I watched too many movies. LOL!!!