Before setting up this eponymous label, Marcio Lopes worked with the Vinho Verde maestro, Anselmo Mendes, where he gained experience (a euphemism for “learned where the best grapes were”) in the sub-regions of Monção, Melgaço, Amarante and Ponte de Lima. This Loureiro comes from the last-named and is a more ‘serious’ expression of Vinho Verde, eschewing the simple, spritzy style that over-populates the shelves in favour of a wine with more concentration and palate weight. It displays Loureiro’s classic ‘bay leaf’ note (etymologically: laurus > loureiro > laurel > bay leaf) as well as white-fleshed fruits, grapefruit pith, chalk and white flowers. 12% alc. Unoaked. Drink now-2028. Organic (uncertified)

Press review:

The Wine Advocate: “The entry-level Loureiro 2024 Pequenos Rebentos Loureiro comes from different vineyards in different locations and has already set the tone for the vintage of fresh, expressive and balanced wines. The palate is round and juicy, with structure and great freshness. It fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel where it matured until bottling. This is delicious. It shows relaxed, open and aromatic—one year in bottle does it very good. Drink now-2028.“ 91 points