Aveleda Castas and Nature in the Glass

08 May 2025 / Wines

At Quinta da Aveleda, every wine is born from a deep commitment to nature.

The Aveleda Castas range reflects this close relationship with the natural world, where respect for the soil, the promotion of biodiversity, and attention to detail come together to create authentic white wines.

Based on iconic grape varieties from the Vinho Verde Region, such as Loureiro and Alvarinho, this range showcases how a balance between tradition and sustainability results in a truly unique experience in every glass.

In this article, you’ll discover how sustainability and terroir are expressed in each wine.

Vineyards Treated with Care and Respect

The attention to detail in every stage of vineyard management reflects the dedication and care that go into everything we create. At Aveleda, we intentionally plant at a higher density, meaning fewer grapes per vine and fruit with greater concentration of sugars and aromatic compounds.

The soil is carefully protected to retain heat near the roots, encouraging earlier and more balanced ripening.

This viticultural model allows us to make the most of the region while maintaining a healthy, active ecosystem through practices such as:

  • Reduced spacing between vines
  • Lower yield per vine, resulting in more concentrated grapes
  • Preservation of soil health and local biodiversity
  • Natural and optimal ripening before autumn rains

Every step is taken with environmental consciousness, reinforcing the connection between the wine and its origin. Aveleda’s team of highly qualified specialists carefully monitor every stage of the vine’s cycle and values every grape that enters the winery. Our craftsmanship begins here.

Lighter, More Sustainable Packaging

Our commitment to sustainability extends to packaging. In 2024, Aveleda introduced changes to the bottles and boxes used for the Castas range.

The new packaging is lighter, easier to recycle, and has a smaller transport footprint, reducing carbon emissions without compromising the wine’s protection. Improvements include:

  • Lighter bottles
  • Use of recyclable materials
  • Improved logistics with new transport boxes
  • Lower CO₂ emissions during distribution

This environmental responsibility is reflected in every detail – from vine to finished product.

The Vibrant Freshness of Loureiro

Aveleda Loureiro is made from the Loureiro grape, one of the region’s most expressive varieties. Grown on granite and sandy soils, this wine reveals notes of grapefruit, lime and jasmine, with a mineral texture that gives it freshness and lightness. Fermentation at controlled temperatures and ageing on lees preserve its aromatic purity.


Its natural freshness pairs beautifully with light, aromatic dishes:

  • Seafood
  • Sushi and white fish
  • Fresh salads, especially with fruit

This wine is made to be enjoyed young, showcasing the lively elegance that defines Loureiro.

It offers an exuberant aromatic profile with subtle acidity – a favourite among lovers of fresh and aromatic white wines.

The Elegant Character of Alvarinho

Aveleda Alvarinho delivers a more structured and layered expression. Made exclusively from Alvarinho grapes, this wine features delicate aromas of orange blossom, lime and tropical fruit.

Its texture is velvety, with a long and harmonious finish that pairs well with more intense dishes.

What makes this wine so special:

  • Night harvesting to preserve freshness
  • Low-temperature fermentation
  • Ageing on lees in stainless steel
  • Evolving profile with good ageing potential

Its structure and freshness make it ideal for pairing with grilled salmon, asparagus or gratin vegetables.

Alvarinho is one of Portugal’s noblest grape varieties and a benchmark in the world of Vinho Verde, known for its ageing potential and ability to produce structured yet fresh wines.

The Natural Balance of Loureiro & Alvarinho

Aveleda Loureiro & Alvarinho prove how these two varieties complement one another beautifully. Loureiro brings floral exuberance, while Alvarinho adds body, texture and roundness. The result is a fresh, versatile and well-balanced wine.

Its aromatic profile includes:

  • Elderflower and passion fruit
  • Balanced citrus notes
  • Tropical hints and a creamy texture

This combination is explored in greater detail in our guide to the differences between Loureiro and Alvarinho, showing how the contrast between the two creates distinct yet harmonious wines.

Grape Varieties That Reflect the Region’s Identity

The Aveleda Castas range is a clear commitment to wines with true identity – wines that respect their origin, celebrate terroir, and reach the consumer with authenticity and transparency.

This ongoing attention to every aspect of production, from vineyard to packaging, is part of a fully integrated and sustainable approach.

During harvest, this care becomes even more significant. The focus on environmental preservation, grape freshness, and process quality all come together to define Aveleda’s signature style.

This sustainable harvest philosophy shows how tradition and environmental responsibility can walk hand in hand.

Written by Aveleda