Vasco CROFT

An architect by profession, Vasco Croft took over the family Winery of Quinta do Casal do Paço in 2006, which had been abandoned for two generations.
The Quinta (a Portuguese property generally comprising a manor house, agrarian and/or agricultural land and plantations) is located in northern Portugal, in Padreiro, between the Spanish border and the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of 20 hectares of land and forests, 6 of which are vineyards and 4 of chestnut trees.

On his arrival, Vasco restructured Winery. For the wine-growing section ( Winery Aphros), he is helped by Daniel Noël-Fournier from Bordeaux (founder of Vitis vini bio) who advises him on the actions to be taken to make a successful transition to biodynamic agriculture. From 2010 to 2015, the vinifications are closely monitored by Jacques Fourés, also a pioneer of Biodynamics in Bordeaux.
The wines produced are quickly noticed by critics who also highlight the ecological concept of Winery between Biodynamics and Permaculture. The wines are becoming increasingly (re)known, particularly in Japan, the USA, Germany and the UK.
In 2008, the Winery Aphros expanded following the purchase of two other "Quintas" in the region, Casa Nova and Valflores, bringing the number of hectares of vines to 20. Vasco Croft then began construction of a new winery to manage the expansion of Winery. The work will be completed in 2014.

At Winery Aphros, the vine is therefore biodynamically managed thanks to numerous preparations and herbal teas that the owner takes to heart to elaborate.
At the same time, the Winery also experiments with natural treatments to stimulate and protect the plant from diseases. These treatments are based on plant extracts, essential oils (orange, tea) and brandy extracts from Winery.
For the vinification, the macerations and fermentations of the reds are done "à l'ancienne", crushed by foot in a granite vat (called "lagares"). Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, naturally present on the grapes. The wines are not fined and the use of sulphur during bottling is very limited (between 20 and 50 mg/litre of total SO2). A light filtration can take place if necessary.
Whether in the vineyard or in the cellar, all operations are done according to the lunar calendar.
You will have understood it at Winery Aphros, the job is done and well done!

We offer you 2 iconic vintages from Winery, a white Vinho Verde and a red one. Far from the stereotypes of the Appellation, the wines are fresh, complete and digestible. The quality/price ratio is difficult to match. Conclusion ?... tasting !!!!