Origin
Aliança hold single estates spread across the wine regions of Portugal, in the likes of Douro, Dão, Bairrada and Alentejo. This particular wine comes from Bairrada, an historic wine region of Portugal with viticulture dating as far back as the 10th century. Like most Portuguese wine regions it receives plenty of hot sunshine, although proximity to the Atlantic results in a climate moderated by ocean currents; this helps to produce balanced wines, perhaps less chunky and heavy than those from inland – in Douro and Dão for example.
Producer
One of Portugal’s largest and most progressive producers with 600 hectares spread across estates in five regions from Douro in the north to Alentejo in the south. Winemaker Francisco Antunes oversees what must be one of the most diverse ranges in Europe, from the 3rd largest Portuguese rose brand (Casal Mendes) to some of the country’s most impressive premium reds from estates in Douro, Dao, Bairrada and Alentejo. Arguably, Francisco’s greatest achievements lie between these extremes, a range of mid-priced wines from native varieties, full of character, quite distinctly Portuguese, but at the same time approachable and with fresh, modern fruit.
Grape Variety
Baga 70% , Tinta Roriz 20% , Touriga Nacional 10%
Focus is on elevating the pure fruit character of this wine – so all fermented in stainless steel at cooler than normal temperature (for red). Includes some whole berries which highlights the Baga grapes juicy character. Bottled unoaked.
Food Match
Enjoy this with a good rustic casserole, beef or game, or the Sunday roast. Also worked surprisingly well with a pepperoni pizza!
Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Alcohol Percentage
13%
In the Press
Bronze – International Wine Challenge 2020 (2018 vintage)
ryanbrady1981 –
Intense berry and baked fruit aromas with spice and appealingly rustic notes. Vibrant plum and black cherry on the palate with licorice hints, robust tannins, and finely poised acidity.
Will –
A nice drop which for it’s price you can’t complain at all. A really great wine for any occasion – especially when you can’t really have anything to celebrate with friends at the moment!