Let's dive into the more Portuguese reds that we are highlighting for our #juneisforindies Wines of Portugal campaign.
Region:
In recent years, Alentejo has become a hotbed of innovative winemaking. Many Alentejo winemakers are experimenting with new techniques and grape varieties, and the region is quickly gaining a reputation for producing some of the most exciting wines in Portugal. The region's climate is hot and dry, with long, sunny days and cool nights. This climate is perfect for growing grapes, and the Alentejo is home to a wide variety of grape varieties, both native and international.
Terroir:
Most of the region is marked by plains and gently rolling hills. The soils of Alentejo are more varied than anywhere else in Portugal, and much of the soil quality is poor in nutrients, which is perfect for grape vines. The soil types found throughout the area include schist, pink marble, granite, limestone, and a sub-layer of water-retaining clay.
Grapes:
Portugal ranks as the country with the second largest number of indigenous grape varieties, not found in other parts of the world. In addition to the large number of indigenous grape varieties found in the Alentejo, which impart their strong regional distinctive character to the wines and which are extremely well adapted to the geography and climate of the Alentejo, many non-indigenous varieties have been introduced in recent years. These new varieties add widely recognised value, and reinforce the Alentejo’s reputation as a leading winegrowing region. This wine is made up of a blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet.
How it tastes:
Lifted aromas of black fruits, a rich, spicy palate with juicy ripe fruit, supple tannins and fresh finish.
What to pair it with:
Feijoada
This is a traditional Portuguese "cowboy soup" or sausage and bean stew.
Cheese
Cross the border into Spain and try it with some Manchego!
Region:
In recent years, Alentejo has become a hotbed of innovative winemaking. Many Alentejo winemakers are experimenting with new techniques and grape varieties, and the region is quickly gaining a reputation for producing some of the most exciting wines in Portugal. The region's climate is hot and dry, with long, sunny days and cool nights. This climate is perfect for growing grapes, and the Alentejo is home to a wide variety of grape varieties, both native and international.
Terroir:
Most of the region is marked by plains and gently rolling hills. The soils of Alentejo are more varied than anywhere else in Portugal, and much of the soil quality is poor in nutrients, which is perfect for grape vines. The soil types found throughout the area include schist, pink marble, granite, limestone, and a sub-layer of water-retaining clay.
Grapes:
Portugal ranks as the country with the second largest number of indigenous grape varieties, not found in other parts of the world. In addition to the large number of indigenous grape varieties found in the Alentejo, which impart their strong regional distinctive character to the wines and which are extremely well adapted to the geography and climate of the Alentejo, many non-indigenous varieties have been introduced in recent years. These new varieties add widely recognised value, and reinforce the Alentejo’s reputation as a leading winegrowing region. This wine is made up of a blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet.
How it tastes:
Lifted aromas of black fruits, a rich, spicy palate with juicy ripe fruit, supple tannins and fresh finish.
What to pair it with:
Feijoada
This is a traditional Portuguese "cowboy soup" or sausage and bean stew.
Cheese
Cross the border into Spain and try it with some Manchego!
So give this versatile big bold BBQ red a whirl this summer - we guarantee you'll love it on its own. with friends, and with food!