Wines Alentejo Herdade das Servas - Reserva Tinto - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The Herdade das Servas Cuvée Reserva Tinto 2017 is a fine dry red wine originating from the Alentejo region in Portugal, an area increasingly recognised for producing robust, expressive reds. This cuvée typically brings together several indigenous Portuguese grape varieties—such as Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, and perhaps some Touriga Nacional—vinified together to create a harmonious and well-structured wine. The 2017 vintage benefits from a warm and sunny growing season, yielding ripe fruit with good concentration. The Reserva designation indicates extended ageing, often with maturation in both French and American oak barrels, which imparts subtle notes of spice, vanilla, and toasty complexity. Expect a deep ruby hue, aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, sweet spice, and hints of cocoa and tobacco. On the palate, this wine reveals full body, polished tannins, and a lingering finish that combines ripe fruit with earthy undertones.

Alentejo, situated in southern Portugal, has a long-standing tradition of viticulture, favoured by its expansive plains, gently rolling hills, and well-drained schist and granite soils. The region's Mediterranean climate, marked by hot, dry summers and mild winters, encourages grapes to reach full ripeness, resulting in bold, fruit-forward wines with supple tannins. Historically known for rustic, hearty reds, Alentejo producers like Herdade das Servas have steadily refined their techniques, marrying tradition with modern winemaking to achieve greater elegance and balance. The region’s heritage is also linked to its cork forests and whitewashed villages, all contributing to its tranquil charm.

Given the wine’s richness and structure, it pairs superbly with robust dishes such as slow-cooked Alentejano black pork, beef stews, grilled lamb, or local game. Cheeses such as Queijo de Évora or aged Manchego also make excellent accompaniments. For an authentic pairing, try the wine alongside a traditional Alentejo pork and clams stew (“Carne de Porco à Alentejana”).

To fully appreciate the complexity and layered aromas of this Reserva Tinto, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will also allow the wine to breathe and reveal its full character.