The 2022 Azores Wine Company Vinha dos Utras is one of the most sought-after wines of the Azores, sourced from a tiny vineyard of 60–80-year-old vines planted just metres from the Atlantic Ocean on Pico Island. Dominated by Arinto dos Açores with small amounts of traditional field-blend varieties, the vines grow in cracks of ancient volcanic basalt, protected by historic stone walls. Produced in extremely limited quantities, it is considered one of the purest expressions of the Azores’ unique maritime terroir.
The nose is intensely mineral, revealing lime zest, mandarin, sea spray, iodine and crushed stone. The palate is powerful yet remarkably precise, with concentrated citrus fruit, razor-sharp acidity and extraordinary salinity driving a long, layered finish. Luis Gutiérrez awarded the 2022 vintage 96 points, praising its freshness, complexity and ageing potential, while James Suckling also rated it 96 points.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A truly world-class Atlantic white and one of Portugal’s most compelling wines. Complex, saline and intensely mineral, it is a spectacular match for oysters, sea urchin, lobster, grilled fish and other seafood dishes. While fascinating now, this is a wine built for the cellar and should evolve beautifully through 2045–2055 and beyond.
