“Brazilian wines? But with Italian grapes?” These questions marked Valparaíso Vinhos e Vinhedos’ participation in Slow Wine, an international fair promoted by the Slow Food movement in Bologna, Italy. It was the first Brazilian winery to take part in this event focused on natural wines.
During the event, stakeholders from the wine world tasted the main labels from the Brazilian winery. “They were amazed by the quality of our products. Then, when they learned about our family’s history, they were even more impressed by our wines,” says a proud Naiana Argenta, head of the winery.
Participation in Slow Wine also included a presentation on the wine-producing method used by Arnaldo Argenta, the winery’s founder. The content includes minimal intervention and soil regeneration practices.
The Valparaíso farm is located in the Brazilian Southern region and is the result of the dream of agronomist Arnaldo Antonio Argenta, who has devoted his life and career to growing grapes. Since 2006, he and his team have been perfecting innovative production techniques. The result is a farm that has become an example in the region.
Today, the rural property has more than 45 varieties of grapes, including nine “Vitis vinifera” used in the production of fine wines and sparkling wines: Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, Rondinella, Garganega, Torrontés, Moscato Alexandria, and Chardonnay. Many of them, to the surprise of the Slow Wine Fair audience, are Italian.
Among the principles used are protection against humidity and biodynamic techniques such as soil enrichment and natural fertilizers. The winery’s association with the Slow Food movement also implies respect for the production chain, KM0, and sustainable practices regarding the environment.
Valparaiso Vinhos’ labels are on the menus of renowned Brazilian restaurants, such as the Dom, run by Michelin-starred chef Alex Atala.
The road to export
Valparaíso Vinhos e Vinhedos’ participation in Agro.BR, a program led by the Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA) in collaboration with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (APEX-Brasil), showcases its commitment to broadening its market reach.
Agro.BR aims to expand Brazil’s export portfolio, and Valparaíso’s role in this initiative underscores their ambition to show the unique qualities of Brazilian wines on the global stage. Through Agro.BR, Valparaíso ventures into new international markets, takes part in global wine exhibits, and uses digital platforms to engage with wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Brazil’s wine scenario
The vinicultural scene in Brazil’s wine sector, especially in the Serra Gaúcha region, is renowned for its combination of time-honored practices and cutting-edge innovations. The country’s varied climate and soil aspects enrich the flavors and excellence of its wines.
Committed to sustainability, Brazilian wine producers such as Valparaíso take the leading role in adopting eco-conscious methods, striving for a minimal ecological footprint while crafting outstanding wines. While many Brazilian vineyards emphasize quantity in production, Valparaíso distinguishes itself by valuing sustainable methods and top-notch quality, thereby setting a new benchmark in the Brazilian wine scenario.
Fonte:
Brazilian natural wines make an impression at the Slow Wine Fair