The philosophy at Mira Do Ó: The grapes are what matter most. This is not an uncommon sentiment in the modern wine world, but the Dão region of Portugal is in the midst of a growing movement to follow in the footsteps of the great French vintners who believe the best wine is made in the vineyard, not the cellar. Mira Do Ó's cherished vineyards are located in São João de Lourosa, between Viseu and Silgueiros, about an hour from the Atlantic coast, perched atop a plateau at an altitude of 500 meters on the right bank of the Dão River.

Druida is made from the native Encruzado grape, and is given a treatment similar to most white Burgundy - the hand-picked grapes are slowly fermented in tank, then the wine is aged 10 months in large neutral barrels, and then held in bottle to age further before release when the wine is deemed ready. The ripping acidity and minerality of the Dão terroir is coupled with the complexity of the Encruzado grape, and imbued with Burgundian elegance and length. If you want a white wine with a ton of character to match full-flavored dishes, this is it. Druida exudes notes of lemon oil, fresh-cut herbs, salty biscuit, high-tone peachy aromas, with a dash of thyme and electrifying acidity. If mineral water tasted like this I would stay better hydrated. 

Pairing: Lavish seafood dishes 

Grape: 100% Encruzado 

Soil: Granite and Clay 

Viticulture: Organic practicing