It's Only My Opinion, But: Dao's Encruzado Is the Lady-in-Waiting of White Grape Varieties

Encruzado Grows in the Dao (pronounced "Down")

You can say you heard first here. The Encruzado white grape variety from Portugal's Dao region will become the sleeper hit of 2025. A bold statement indeed, but even though wines crafted with this grape are not always so easy to find, even in Portugal, nonetheless, I will do all that I can to make sure the Tri-State Area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut) gets the chance to try a glass or two of this fantastic fruit.

Encruzado is a highly regarded white grape variety native to Portugal, particularly the Dão region, where it is considered one of the most important white wine grapes. Known for its versatility and elegance, Encruzado produces wines that can be both fresh and aromatic when young or rich and complex when aged, particularly in oak. It stands out as one of Portugal's finest white grape varieties. It can produce serious and structured wines with an extraordinary capacity for aging.

Encruzado wines often exhibit delicate floral aromas, along with citrus and stone fruit notes such as lemon, lime, peach, and apricot. Subtle hints of herbs, nuts, or minerality may also emerge.

Young wines are typically crisp and fresh, with vibrant acidity and fruit-forward flavors. When aged, especially in oak, Encruzado develops creamy textures and complex flavors, including vanilla, hazelnut, and spice.

Encruzado wines are known for their balance, combining good acidity with medium to full body. This structure allows the wines to age well, gaining richness and depth over time.

Most likely, you won't find a bottle of Encruzado in the supermarket near you, but give us time, and soon enough Lucky Sardine will get some to you.