Get to know: Quinta da Raza, Curtimenta 2024, Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal
A beautifully textured orange wine from northern Portugal that’s full of character and intrigue. Bold, fresh, and a little wild.
Tasting Note
This Portuguese white wine from the Vinho Verde DOC breaks the mould with its striking amber colour and complex flavours. Made using traditional skin-contact techniques, it’s bursting with dried apricot, orange zest, and a subtle hint of spice, alongside bright acidity and a tactile, almost tannic grip.
It’s a richer, more adventurous style than your usual Vinho Verde, with a dry finish that lingers nicely on the palate.
Top food pairings:
- Roasted root vegetable salad with tahini dressing
- Slow-cooked pork belly with apple sauce
- Cheese: mature cheddar or washed-rind cheeses like Taleggio
Perfect for those who love to experiment and want a wine that pairs brilliantly with bold, flavoursome food.
Kate Says
“Curtimenta is such a fun wine – orange wines can sometimes be a bit much, but this one balances texture and freshness really well. It’s got a bit of grip without being heavy, and that fruit and spice combo keeps you interested.”
Producer Info
Quinta da Raza, nestled in the heart of the Basto sub-region in Vinho Verde DOC, has been crafting wines with care and tradition for generations. The 2024 Curtimenta is their standout orange wine, made with minimal intervention and a real respect for the grapes and terroir.
How it’s made:
- Grapes (mainly indigenous varieties) are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness
- Fermentation takes place with extended skin contact — typically several weeks — which gives the wine its distinctive amber hue and tannic texture
- Fermented and aged in stainless steel and large neutral vessels to preserve freshness while adding complexity
- Minimal filtration and no added sulphites ensure a natural, expressive wine
This approach results in a robust but elegant Portuguese white wine that’s full of personality — citrusy, nutty, and wonderfully textural, with a persistent, dry finish.
Good to know:
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Region: Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal
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Vintage: 2024
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ABV: 12.5%
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Vegan: Yes
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Style: Orange wine, textured and dry
Why we love it:
If you’re curious about orange wines or just want something a bit different, Curtimenta delivers. It’s a confident, food-friendly wine that pairs brilliantly with rich, spiced dishes and those who like their wine with a bit of bite and a lot of flavour.