In this review we are discussing a new Portugese winemaking project: Companhia de Vinhos Invencível. This is a joint project of two big names in the international wine scene, Rita Marquez (Conceito) and Marc Kent (Boekenhoutskloof). We will be reviewing three of their wines.
Rita Marques, oenologist and passionate winemaker at the Portuguese Douro winery Conceito, and Marc Kent, South African winemaker of the famous Boekenhoutskloof winery, founded Companhia de Vinhos Invencível in Portugal in 2020. The two winemakers, who had previously worked together in South Africa and Portugal, now embraced a greater commitment in acquiring an estate in Casais do Douro.
The estate is located in the heart of the region of Cima Corgo. The soil where the vines for the Invencível wines grow consist of a graphite lair with concrete and steel. Some of the vines are over 90 years old. The winery works on a biodynamic level and all the grapes are handpicked. Due to the altitude and steepness of the vines the winery has “low yield” meaning that there is a low percentage of grapes coming of each hectare.
The grapes for ‘Natural Mystic’ come from different vineyards, situated in the Portugese Vinho Verde wine region.
For this winery we are tasting two wines that share the name Invincible, both from the Douro, and one white wine from Vinho Verde named Natural Mystic.
Invencível Vinho Branco 2022
This is a field blend made of Rabigato, Arinto, Códega and a touch of Moscatel. The wine is fermented In RVS tanks and a small part in French oak. Invencível Branco has a fresh and aromatic nose with tones of citrus, green apple and lemon zest. On the palette the wine is lively while its body has some added structure provided by a touch of wood and spiciness, which add comfort and character. The acidity in the wine is high, but feels comfortable in the mout. The finish is long, with remaining tones of citrus.
A very nice and well-made wine. The freshness and complexity earn this wine extra points. We can see ourselves sitting in the Portugese sun, eating some fresh seafood, paired with this nice white wine! We award this wine with a 89-point DWA score.
Invencível Vinho Tinto 2021
This wine is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. The wine had a ripening of 16 months in French oak. In the nose there is a lot going on with dark fruit like blackcurrant and ripe cherry’s, but also tones of wood (slight hint of vanilla). A very intense fruit driven flavor, combined with a refined tannin structure, strong acidity and nice balance. In the finish the wood slightly prevails.
A well-made wine which pleases us! The structure of the tannins and complexity on the palette make this our favorite in this series. Pairing this wine with a nice piece of grilled meat, or some cold cuts and stronger cheeses, would work perfectly. Even slightly cooled this wine is a joy to drink. We award this wine with a 91-point DWA score.
Natural Mystic – Vinho Verde 2022
This wine is a blend of the grapes Loureiro, Alvarinho and Arinto. In the nose it carries citrus, lime zest and some peach tones. The palette of the wine is very fresh with a nice acidity and a fruit driven dominance.
A refreshing wine with a nice citrus nose. Fresh for a summer day, paired with light seafood, salads with fish or chicken, but most definitely a good wine for an aperitif. We award this wine with a 87-point DWA score.
This new and exciting project shows us once more what beauty Portugal possesses when it comes to indigenous grapes and old vines. Combining this with a star team such as Marquez and Kent make it even more interesting. The quality and diversity of the wines, combined with strong prices, make this a project to keep an eye on for the future. But do not be afraid to stock up on Invencível already, and enjoy the wines now!
All Invencível wines are imported in the Netherlands by Coenecoop, and available at various retailers amongst which Perfecte Wijn. This review is written by our own Jorick Wimmers.
In this in-depth exploration of South African wine, Avondale and Jordan reveal how the Cape’s future is being shaped by two contrasting yet complementary philosophies, balancing biodynamic farming, precision viticulture and an evolving understanding of terroir. Set against climate pressure and shifting ripening patterns, their stories show how innovation and classical structure are redefining Stellenbosch and the wider Cape wine identity.
Kemme Wines presents a focused California wine tasting featuring Jackson Family Wines, highlighting terroir-driven Chardonnay and mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon from some of the state’s most respected estates. Through a curated selection spanning Sonoma, Santa Barbara, Knights Valley, and Napa Valley, the tasting showcased modern California wine defined by freshness, structure, and long-term ageing potential.
Château Haut-Bailly is one of the great reference estates of Pessac-Léognan, defined by more than eight centuries of history, a commitment to elegance over fashion, and a distinctive, tactile wine style. In conversation with Véronique Sanders – van Beek, this in-depth article explores Haut-Bailly’s philosophy, recent evolution, and tastings from 2015 to 2022, highlighting why the château remains a benchmark for classic yet contemporary Bordeaux.
Sustainability is reshaping Argentine wine, and Catena Zapata stands at the forefront with pioneering work in lightweight bottles, responsible packaging, and social commitment. This article explores how one of Argentina’s most influential wineries is redefining environmental and economic sustainability in Mendoza and beyond.
At a pivotal moment for Bordeaux, Mathilde de Caix-Lurton of Famille André Lurton shares her perspective on how the region is adapting to climate change, shifting consumer behaviour, and global competition. From Pessac-Léognan to international markets, she outlines a vision for Bordeaux that balances long-term stewardship with the need to remain relevant in a changing world.
Château d’Yquem 2023 marks the third exceptional vintage in a remarkable trilogy, showcasing how modern Sauternes is evolving while remaining rooted in tradition. Tasted in Amsterdam with winemaker Toni El Khawand, this new release reveals a young Yquem in full voice, combining freshness, precision and long-term promise.
Join our insiders’ list and get exclusive early access to new articles, expert tips, and fresh reviews delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe now and be the first to discover!
Subscribe for curated content, podcast alerts and honest wine reviews.