Chão de Sal (“soil of salt”) is Insula winemaker Paulo Machado’s secret, chillable red, a palhete/clarete where red and white grapes are pressed and fermented together. The fruit comes from one of Pico’s oldest vineyards in São Mateus on the cooler south side, planted on black basalt and protected by currais. The result is light, juicy and driven by Atlantic salinity and volcanic minerality.
Technically it isn’t approved under EU regulations (mixing red and white), which is why the label reads “IV” rather than Insula Vinus. The wine exists anyway, because reality cares less about paragraphs than about what tastes good.
The grapes are hand-harvested and transported in 15 kg crates. Red and white varieties are gently pressed together and fermented in stainless steel with minimal intervention. In the glass you’ll find smoky top notes, aromatic strawberry and raspberry, citrus freshness and plenty of sea salt. The texture is delicate and energetic, the tannins low, the finish long and stony. Serve lightly chilled.