From the granitic slopes of Vale Flor to the singularity of Horta do Douro, the Ferraz Family concludes another cycle of hand harvesting. A vivid account of mountain craft, respect for the terroir, and the unity that gives soul to Souvall wines.
The Precision of Hand Harvesting in High-Altitude Vineyards
As September began, the Ferraz Family vineyards reached their precise point of ripeness. On the slopes of Vale Flor (Mêda), at altitudes ranging between 500 and 750 meters, and in the Horta do Douro parcel (Vila Nova de Foz Côa), the 2026 harvest upheld the most rigorous tradition of mountain viticulture: 100% manual picking.
To ensure that every grape arrives at the winery in pristine condition, transport is carried out exclusively in 20 kg perforated crates. This meticulous care prevents premature crushing and preserves the vibrant freshness, natural acidity, and authentic mineral expression of our granitic soils.
Tinta Barroca and Indigenous Varieties: The Pure Expression of the Land
From the younger vines of the Vila Maior parcel to old vines with over six decades of history, the harvest revealed exceptional raw material.
At the Ribeira parcel, located at an altitude of 500 meters, Tinta Barroca achieved the perfect balance between ripeness and delicate aromatics—the foundation for the new edition of our Winemaker’s Epiphany (Souvall Rosé) and the Souvall Espumante Rosé Reserva Extra-Bruto. Simultaneously, indigenous white grape varieties—Síria, Arinto, Rabigato, and Viosinho—harvested from the highest plots (up to 700m), promise blends of great elegance, longevity, and an unmistakable mountain character.
The Human Element: Wine, Love and Family at the Heart of the Harvest
Above all, the harvest is a celebration of people. Among the rows of vines, shared dedication brought generations together: from the wise hands that tend the land throughout the year to the watchful eyes of the younger generation learning to honor their family heritage.
The end of the harvest was marked by the traditional end-of-harvest celebration at the winery. Between the noble fatigue of a job well done and a family toast, the meaning of our motto was renewed: Wine, Love and Family. It is this human warmth and team dedication that impart soul to every bottle that reaches your table.
Where the Magic Happens: The Onset of Winemaking and Wine Tourism
With the field work complete, the center of activity moves to our winery in Vale Flor. Between meticulous sorting at the selection table, temperature-controlled fermentations, and fine lees aging with bâtonnage, the aromas of the new vintage already fill the air.
In this phase when the winery is alive and undergoing full oenological transformation, we open the doors of Quinta do Souvall for exclusive Wine Tourism experiences. We invite you to visit our estate, understand the winemaking process, and taste our Altitude Wines paired with the finest regional flavors.
Experience It Firsthand
Enjoy the aromas of the new harvest and book your High-Altitude Wine Tasting at Quinta do Souvall.
📍 Vale Flor, Mêda | 📩 Bookings: nuno.gomes@laferraz.pt | 🌐 Learn more at: laferraz.pt/wine-tourism
