Duckman a.k.a. Joao Pato

Ois do Bairro, Portugal

Winemaker Maria-Joao Pato

Region Bairrada

Country Portugal

Soil Type Clay and Sand

Main Varieties Baga and Bical

Maria-João Pato is Luis Pato’s middle daughter. Her hybrid first name incorporates both her paternal grandparents’ names. Grandpa João set the Pato family wine “dynasty” going mid last century. He was the Duckman - Pato means duck in Portuguese.

Maria-João has grasped that mantle to make her own mark within within this family nest of creativity, innovation, experimentation, and irreverence.

Forging her own path with the Duckman bottlings, she draws on her legendary father, Luis' legacy to push the boundaries of what is possible from the terroirs and grape varieties that are the beating heart of the Pato family estate.

Using only family-owned vineyards, Maria-João has implemented a positive move towards regenerative, sustainable, and de-facto organic vineyard practices. Over the 5-year transition period, this has seen lower yields and more balance, leading to better quality, added vibrancy, and intensity.
In her winemaking, she continues simple, traditional methods that have been used for 3 generations, with purity and plenty of disruptive intent. Hugely expressive wines that encapsulate the unflappable spirit of the Duckman!

www.joaopatoakaduckman.com