Alentejo (pronounced “ah-LEN-tehzh, or “ah-len-te-sho”) is a major wine producing region in the southeast of Portugal (pictured in image). The region occupies a large stretch of land running north to south that consists of miles and miles of rolling plains and forest. This area is situated on very high quality soil of volcanic origin which of which you will find planted olives and vines. Further, the area is the home of hundreds of acres of cork forests which produce approximately one half of the worlds corks.

Until recent years Alentejo was relatively unknown in the wine world as it was often associated with mediocre Portuguese table wine. A rejuvenation in the wine making industry supported by both new technology and the energy of new and younger generation wine makers is currently underway. I expect great things from this region in the next ten years and here hope to briefly introduce you to some of the great things to look for in the near future.

Of the many grapes you’ll find in Alentejo, the majority are prominently red. These wines tend to be big, fruit-forward wines that are approachable young and when done right display solid tannins with some ability to age. The most popular grape variety is what is known locally as Aragonez (Tempranillo). Aragonez is thick-skinned and performs best in cooler climates where it is allowed to develop to maturity. The grape is low in acidity and sugars and therefore performs better as a blend. Aragonez adds flavors of plums, berry, tobacco, leather, and herbs.

Portugal’s national grape, the Touriga Nacional, is usually found growing with a variety of other grapes and was traditionally blended to make Port. More recently, Touriga Nacional is being used to make table wine where it’s tough skin, big dark fruits, and great structure make it an ideal backbone for a big, juicy red. Another very popular grape in Alentejo is Trincadeira. This small, dark grape that grows in bunches provides dark fruits and medium tannins to wines. I have significant experience with Portuguese wines and have to say that one of my favorite grapes is the dark-skinned and delicate Castelao. The Castelao grape provides big raspberry fruits and lots of great spice and are approachable when young. It is often added to a blend of grape varietals to bring out some spice and give the wine youth.

Other common grape varietals include Moreto, Periquita, Touriga Franca (great dark fruits), Alicante Bouschet (a French grape hybrid providing acidity, red fruits, and great color) , and the very unique Alfrocheiro Preto which is found in Vidigueira in the far south. One final note is that although I did not go into them here, Alentejo whites are also up and coming.

In general, 2004 and 2005 were very good vintages in Alentejo. The 2006’s are just starting to show and are looking to be another great vintage. I’d recommend experimenting with the many different varietals and unique blends offered by some of the winemakers in Alentejo. Here are a few suggestions of where to start. One final note, keep in mind that these wines are just making their way back into the US market and are priced very good. This means that a lot of great bargain wines are out there waiting to be found. Good luck!

• Vinha da Tapada Coelheiros (2004)
• Encostas de Estremoz Touriga Nacional (2004)
• Monte da Caldeira Colheita Seleccionada (2004) (50% Trincadeira, 50% Aragonez)
• Quinta da Pinheira (2004) – (Trincadeira, Aragones, Castelao)
  • For more info, see: www.lusoimports.com or Wine Searcher