Viniou Reviews
Wine & Soul’s ‘Pintas Character’ 2018 is a distinguished red wine from the Douro Valley, a region renowned for producing some of Portugal’s most expressive red blends. This cuvée is crafted from a mix of indigenous grape varieties, typically featuring Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and others selected from ancient vineyards—sometimes with over 30 different varieties co-planted. The 2018 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, allowing optimal ripening and concentration of flavours. Vinification is traditional yet meticulous: hand-harvested grapes are foot-trodden and fermented in granite lagares before ageing in French oak barrels, striking a harmonious balance between fruit purity and oak complexity.
The Douro region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions. Its breathtaking terraced slopes line the Douro River, cut into schistose soils that encourage deep-rooted vines and intense flavour profiles. The Mediterranean climate, moderated by altitude and riverine influences, results in wines of both power and finesse. The area boasts a long tradition in both fortified (Port) and still wines, with estates like Wine & Soul spearheading the revival of premium dry reds.
‘Pintas Character’ is marked by layers of blackberry, dark cherry, and plum, interlaced with floral notes, spicy undertones, and a subtle minerality. Its robust structure and fine tannins make it an exceptional partner for hearty fare. Traditional Portuguese dishes such as roast suckling pig, “posta Mirandesa” (grilled beef steak from Trás-os-Montes), or duck rice bring out the best in this wine. It also pairs well with mature cheeses, richly sauced lamb, or wild mushroom risotto.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour beforehand allows its complex aromas and polished tannins to unfold fully, offering a memorable taste of Douro’s heritage and innovation.
