Ermelinda de Freitas 'Moscatel de Setúbal'

Ermelinda de Freitas is one of the most progressive family estates in the Setúbal Peninsula, south of Lisbon. Established in 1920 and now run by the fourth generation, it boasts 250 hectares of vineyards on calcareous soils near the Atlantic coast. The Moscatel de Setúbal is a fortified sweet wine made from 100% Moscatel Graúdo (Muscat of Alexandria), the grape for which the region has been famous for centuries. Fermentation is stopped with grape spirit, followed by maceration on the skins and at least 18 months in oak.

Description: Golden yellow to amber, rich and aromatic, with aromas of orange marmalade, raisin, honey, orange blossom, and a slight hint of caramel. Sweet and full-bodied on the palate, with a refreshing acidity that balances the richness and a long, lingering finish.

Pairs well with: Fresh melon, Roquefort, foie gras, mature aged cheeses, or on its own as a digestif.

Fun Fact: Moscatel de Setúbal has DOC status dating back to 1907 – one of Portugal's oldest wine classifications. As early as the 18th century, these wines were exported to the English nobility and the Russian imperial court.