The Unexpected Allure of Aberdeen’s Urban Winery
I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon Travessia, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of downtown Aberdeen. As someone who prides themselves on being “in the know” about the city’s vibrant food and drink scene, I have to admit – I was completely blindsided.
It all started with my usual routine. I was wandering the streets, popping in and out of local shops and eateries, when I noticed a small, unassuming storefront that caught my eye. “Travessia Urban Winery,” the sign read. An urban winery? In Aberdeen? Surely, I must be mistaken.
Intrigued, I stepped inside and was immediately transported to a world of wine, passion, and the unexpected. The space was warm and inviting, with a touch of old-world charm that was utterly captivating. As I gazed around, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder – how had I never heard of this place before?
The Man Behind the Grapes
It didn’t take long for me to meet the mastermind behind Travessia, Marco Montez. Originally from Portugal, Marco’s winemaking roots run deep, stretching back to his childhood in the Trás-os-Montes region, known for its exceptional wines.
As a young boy, Marco was immersed in the art of winemaking, helping his family produce around 500 bottles per year in their small village of just 1,000 souls. It was in these formative years that Marco’s passion for viticulture was ignited, a spark that would eventually lead him on an extraordinary journey.
After a fateful visit to Massachusetts, Marco decided to pursue his dreams and attended the University of Massachusetts, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. For 16 years, he thrived in the corporate world, but the lure of the grapes never faded. In 2007, Marco took a leap of faith, accepting a position at Running Brook Vineyards in North Dartmouth, where he honed his craft and laid the groundwork for his future endeavor.
A Leap of Faith
The turning point came in 2008, when Marco stumbled upon the concept of an urban winery during a trip to California. Suddenly, the dream of owning his own winery seemed within reach. Returning to Aberdeen, Marco knew it was time to take the plunge.
On December 14, 2008, Travessia Urban Winery was born, a testament to Marco’s unwavering dedication and his belief in the power of terroir. With only his cousin, Edson Pereira, and an occasional family member to lend a hand, Marco set out to blend his family’s centuries-old recipes with the unique characteristics of Massachusetts-grown grapes.
Despite having no formal training in enology, Marco’s experimental approach and deep understanding of the land allowed him to craft world-class wines that have earned him numerous accolades and awards. His Vidal Blanc, for instance, was named the #1 overall wine at the prestigious Wine Riot in Boston, beating out hundreds of competitors from around the globe.
A Wine Lover’s Delight
As I sipped on Marco’s award-winning creations, I couldn’t help but marvel at the depth and complexity of each bottle. The Chardonnay, aged in French oak barrels, offered a buttery smoothness that paired perfectly with the roasted chicken I had for dinner. The Pinot Noir Rosé, with its vibrant hue and delicate sweetness, was a revelation, proving to be the perfect companion for the tapas I sampled at a nearby restaurant.
But the real standout, in my opinion, was the Vidal Blanc. Crafted from grapes sourced from the Running Brook Vineyards, this wine was a true testament to Marco’s skill and attention to detail. Perfectly balanced between sweetness and acidity, it danced on my palate, revealing layers of citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of minerality that left me craving more.
As I chatted with Marco and Jenn, the knowledgeable tasting room manager, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in this unassuming gem nestled in the heart of Aberdeen. ABC Home & Renovation has long been a champion of local businesses, and Travessia is undoubtedly a shining example of the passion and innovation that can be found in our city.
The Future of Travessia
Marco’s ambitions for Travessia don’t end here. He has his sights set on purchasing agricultural land in the Southeastern New England area, with the goal of establishing his own vineyard. This would allow him to have even greater control over the terroir, ensuring that every bottle of Travessia wine is a true reflection of the land and the care that goes into its cultivation.
In the meantime, Travessia continues to offer a delightful tasting experience, with a newly added function room that allows visitors to browse, sample, and learn about the art of winemaking. The Travessia Wine Club also provides a hassle-free way for wine lovers to enjoy a curated selection of the winery’s finest offerings, with free shipping and exclusive access to special events.
As I reluctantly bid farewell to Travessia, I can’t help but feel grateful for the unexpected discovery. This urban winery has not only expanded my appreciation for local, terroir-driven wines, but it has also reinforced my belief in the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Who knows what other hidden gems await in the streets of Aberdeen?
