Arca Nova Vinho Verde Rose – Smells Like Summer

Exploring the pink side of Vinho Verde with the Arca Nova Vinho Verde Rose.

Espadeiro from Vinho Verde, Portugal. The wine has 8 grams/liter of residual sugar.

This review is brought to you by Vinho Verde Wines.

The Arca Nova Vinho Verde Rose is available for as low as $8. Imported by Frontier Wine Imports. Sample submitted for review.

From the bottle:

The Espadeiro varietal is used for many years in the Vinho Verde region for the production of rosé wines. This red grape variety is characterized by its bright color, aroma of red fruit and balanced acidity. Quinta das Arcas constantly works in the vineyard and winery with the care and knowledge acquired for several decades in order to enhance the values of this Portuguese noble varietal.

11.5% Alcohol

Today we once again continue our exploration of the wines of Vinho Verde, but this time we turn to a style you probably don’t associate with this region: rosé. It was a bit of a surprise to me for sure, but it certainly makes a lot of sense. Why wouldn’t a region known for its fresh, fruity wines not excel at making rosé? Add in a bit of that delightful fizz you find in so many of these wines and you’ve got instant refreshment.

The 2014 Arca Nova Vinho Verde Rose is made from the Espadeiro grape, a new variety for me. It begins with a fresh, fruity aroma full of strawberry, raspberry and lime that smells like summer. The fresh and fruity theme continues when tasting this super refreshing wine that also has a slight fizz in the mouth and just the right amount of sweetness. It ends with a crisp, fresh finish featuring lingering sweet jolly rancher like fruit. This a great palate cleansing wine that will pair well with lots of different summertime foods plus a great wine to explore a different side of Vinho Verde.

Find all of our other Vinho Verde wine picks here.

See a listing of local retailers selling the Arca Nova Vinho Verde Rose here.