At Quinta do Casal da Granja some parcels enjoy a micro-climate conducive to morning mist (light fog) and humid late afternoons, which are ideal for the development of the natural fungus Botrytis Cinerea.
The Grandjó Late Harvest is produced from a rigorous hand-selection of Boal (Semillon) grapes affected by the fungus Botrytis Cinerea, a natural phenomenon known as the “noble-rot” that results in the production of sweet wines with unctuous flavours and a long glycerol-like finish. The Semillon grape has been present in Portugal for many years, known solemnly by the name Boal. Quite recently, it was discovered that Boal is actually Semillon and since then, the grape has been classified as a DOC Douro varietal.
The Grandjó Late Harvest is composed 100% by the variety Boal (Semillon). The grapes are un-picked and left in the vineyards, in which during late October, the botrytis develops naturally. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel vats, followed by an ageing period of 12 months in french oak barriques
The use of Boal (Semillon) and the interference of this natural fungus reflect a similarity to the wines produced in the Sauternes region of Bordeaux. Nevertheless, it expresses the Douro terroir with a complex aromatic character of citric notes combined with apricot, raisins and honey well integrated with subtle nuances of vanilla and hints of toast due to its 12 month ageing in french oak barriques. It reveals a very rich structure with a lush sweetness, which combined with a lively acidity and a vast amount of unctuous flavours result in a long, glycerol-like, fresh and cleansing finish.
