Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the Monte da Ravasqueira Encantado Red (Alentejo, Portugal) – $15.49, regularly $18.49.
Monte da Ravasqueira has been linked to the José de Mello family for several generations. Located in the municipality of Arraiolos, about an hour’s drive from Lisbon, the estate occupies a vast area of typical Alentejo landscape.
The vineyards of Monte da Ravasqueira are carefully managed and monitored with the main objective of producing high quality wines. It comprises an area of 45 hectares, most of which are planted on clay-limestone soils with granite outcrops. Located in Alentejo, Monte da Ravasqueira offers a wide variety of wines resulting from 29 plots of vines. They are also engaged in a number or other activities involving the production of cork, olive oil and honey, as well as rearing fine cattle and fattening of black pig from Alentejo.
Our weekly special this week is their Encantado Red, a blend of Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Franca and Syrah vinified separately and then combined before aging in French oak barrels for 8 months prior to bottling. Nose of forest aromas with a lush mid palate displaying layers of black berry fruit, baking spice and licorice notes finishing on medium tannins and fine length. There is also a slight truffle note that is interesting and beguiling. Try with grilled meats.
Monte da Ravasqueira Encantado Red (Alentejo, Portugal) – $15.49, regularly $18.49.
Prost!