Julia Kemper Wines

Julia Kemper is a bit of a fanatic and all artisan. Her wines are released late and yet are reasonably priced too. And the quality is high. Her journey began in 2003 by taking charge of Quinta do Cruzeiro, part of the Melo family for centuries. As she puts it, “a Melo child, Julia Melo Kemper, started to discuss a new wine concept.” Appalled at what she considered the toxic nature of the Quinta, she wanted to reconvert and restructure the Quinta out of “respect for people and for the planet Earth.” She consulted French specialists and launched a thorough study of the soils and climates of Quinta do Cruzeiro in order to accommodate the 21st-century bio concerns. Little touches were implemented at all levels, from compost piles to bird houses to wastewater management. Her first harvest was in 2008. The entire production is certified organic. Her Quinta is also biodynamic but not certified as such. She was a follower of Rudolph Steiner for food even before coming to wine.

Julia Kemper’s vines are in the Dão region of Portugal, famed for Touriga Nacional, Encruzado, Alfrocheiro and Jaen. Julia Kemper began in 2003 by taking charge of Quinta do Cruzeiro, which had been in her family for centuries. Her first harvest was in 2008.