A Family Vineyard in Vale da Grama
Founded in 2017, Casa Tés is a family-managed vineyard nestled in the Vale da Grama, a valley enriched by the architectural masterpiece of Santa Clara Chapel, designed by the renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. The valley stretches from the crater rim of a volcanic formation that encloses the city of Poços de Caldas and extends towards São Sebastião da Grama, situated at the foot of the Serra da Mantiqueira mountain. This region, also known as the “mountain that weeps” by the Tupi Guarani natives, lies close to the borders of the São Paulo and Minas Gerais states, providing a dramatic landscape that nurtures the growth of exceptional wines.
A Unique Terroir in Vale da Grama
Vale da Grama, a valley 30 kilometers long, is renowned for its rugged topography, rocky soil, and granite cliffs, which help channel the constant winds that sweep through the region from May to August. The estate, positioned at 950 to 1300 meters above sea level, is one of the region’s prime spots for viticulture. Casa Tés stands surrounded by native forests and the Santo Domingos River, benefiting from the biodiversity and untouched vegetation that are integral to the maturation of the grapevines. Over 40% of the estate’s land is dedicated to preserving native vegetation, housing water springs and fostering a harmonious ecosystem.
Meticulous Vineyard Management and Varieties
At Casa Tés, the vines are planted with care and precision, following an in-depth analysis of soil composition, sunlight exposure, drainage, and elevation. The estate cultivates several beloved grape varieties, including:
- Cabernet Franc: Thriving at 1050 meters above sea level near native woodlands and granite cliffs.
- Merlot: Growing on organic, clay-rich soil, a testament to the magic of Vale da Grama.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Planted in two distinct locations within the estate, creating a beautiful contrast in soil and sun exposure.
- Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon: Nurtured amidst the rocky grounds of the estate, reflecting the diverse terroir.
Science, Nature, and Minimal Intervention
At Casa Tés, the vineyard’s unique terroir is honored and the winery operates with minimal intervention. The winemaking process takes place in concrete and stainless-steel tanks, where selected yeasts are allowed to work naturally. After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, primarily new, to develop its character. The process is driven by a commitment to quality and an unwavering attention to detail.
Casa Tés and Grama Labels
The winery produces two distinct labels: Casa Tés and Grama, each following its own path from one harvest to the next, creating unique wines that reflect the changing seasons and the evolving character of the vineyards. Over time, Casa Tés has welcomed talented friends, including Italian winemaker Massimo Leoncini and Pierre, joining the journey to craft exceptional wines from the heart of Vale da Grama.
