Wines Alentejo Cartuxa - Reserva Tinto - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The 2016 Cartuxa Cuvée Reserva Tinto from the Alentejo DOC appellation is a remarkable example of Portuguese red wine craftsmanship. Made from a blend of local grape varieties such as Aragonez, Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet, and possibly more traditional Portuguese grapes, this wine captures the essence of the Alentejo region. The 2016 vintage benefits from a warm growing season, allowing the grapes to reach optimum ripeness. After careful selection, these grapes are vinified, often with a mix of traditional and modern techniques, to highlight both fruit intensity and structure. The result is a full-bodied wine that delivers both depth and complexity, often exhibiting notes of dark berries, plums, spices, and a touch of oak.

Alentejo, the region where this wine is produced, is characterized by its rolling landscapes and Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The soils here vary but are predominantly limestone, schist, and clay, which contribute to the richness and minerality found in the wines. Alentejo's history of winemaking stretches back centuries, and today it is known for producing some of Portugal's most beloved wines, thanks to a blend of tradition and innovative practices.

This wine pairs beautifully with robust dishes that can stand up to its full body and rich flavours. Consider serving it with regional Portuguese cuisine such as lamb stew or Alentejo pork with clams. For an international twist, try it alongside a hearty beef roast with root vegetables, or a well-aged hard cheese platter that can complement the wine's tannic structure and spicy notes.

For an optimal tasting experience, decant the 2016 Cartuxa Cuvée Reserva Tinto to let it breathe for about an hour before serving. This will allow the complex bouquet to fully open. Serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C to fully appreciate the wine's structure and aromatic profile.