2021 Herdade do Rocim Mariana Rosé, Portugal, Alentejo, Wine Review
This is 60% Touriga Nacional and 40% Aragonez grapes. Salmon pink in color, clear and bright. The nose is tight but opens to show orange zest and slight cherries. Nice slightly oily but creamy texture. On the palate, quince, cherries and slight herbal note. Enough acidity to put it all together. Nice finish. Very refreshing. Very nice on its own, this would also work with a Margharita pizza. Drink over the next few years.
2019 Herdade do Rocim Alentejo Vinho Tinto Amphora, Portugal, Wine Review
This is a very interesting wine. From the winery: "Vinification occurred in amphora (large clay pots) without temperature control. Indigenous yeasts were used during fermentation and there was no tampering with the must. Then the wine is aged in amphora until the following spring followed by another two months of bottle aging before release." It is a blend of 50% Aragonez, 30% Trincadeira, 10% Moreto, and 10% Tinta
2015 José Maria da Fonseca Alentejo José de Sousa, Portugal, Wine Review
Portugal is a great source for value in the wine world. This wine provides exceptional value. It is a blend of 52% Grand Noir, 33% Trincadeira, 15% Aragonês fermented in clay amphorae. Purple in color, mostly opaque and bright. the nose is nice with black raspberries, baking spice, dates and slight chocolate.
2014 Herdade do Esporão Esporão Reserva, Portugal, Alentejo, Wine Review
This is a blend of Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira and Cabernet. Purple /ruby in color. The nose is warm with black raspberries, raisins, dust and spice. On the palate, this seems a bit cooler. Cherries with dry earth. Its a big fruity wine. Some warmth on the finish. There is some complexity here and light tannins. It will take heartier foods. These are pretty unique grapes so its not clear how well this ages. Probably best to drink the next five years. Still, for around $20, this is a nice value.