Wines Alentejo Cartuxa - Reserva - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The Cartuxa Cuvée Reserva 2016 from the Alentejo DOC region of Portugal is a remarkable red wine that embodies the rich heritage and unique terroir of its origin. This blend, although unspecified in exact varietals, likely features traditional Alentejo grapes such as Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet, known for their robust and full-bodied characteristics. The 2016 vintage experienced a balance of warm days and cooler nights, ideal for developing the grape's full flavours while maintaining acidity. Alentejo's terroir is characterised by its diverse soils, ranging from schist to clay and limestone, contributing to the wine's depth and complexity. Winemaking practices at Cartuxa involve meticulous grape selection and careful maturation in a combination of French oak barrels, imparting additional structure and spicy notes to the wine.

The Alentejo region in Portugal is renowned for its long history in viticulture, dating back to Roman times. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, which can be challenging yet rewarding for grape growing. This climate, coupled with the region's wide variety of soils and elevations, yields uniquely expressive wines with ripe fruit flavours and balanced tannins.

For food pairings, the Cartuxa Cuvée Reserva 2016 thrives alongside hearty and rich dishes. Consider pairing it with traditional Portuguese fare such as Alentejo-style lamb stew or roasted pork with herbs, which will complement the wine's depth and enhance its complex flavour profile. Its robust nature also makes it an excellent companion to grilled red meats, game, or mature cheeses, enhancing both the wine's and the dish's nuanced flavours.

For optimal enjoyment, it is advisable to serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting it before serving can enhance the wine's aromatic profile and allow its complex flavours to fully develop, offering a truly captivating tasting experience.