When wine lovers think of Portugal, most think about port wines from Douro Valley, but we are heading south and east to the Alentejo (ah-len-tay-zhoo) region where wines of a different style have been crafted for centuries and are now getting their moment in the sun. Although many of the grape varieties are the same, the style of wines could not be more different. Where Douro wines are all about richness and power, Alentejo’s wines are lithe and energetic.
As with most wines from Portugal, they are not varietally labelled and are usually blends of several grapes.
The main reason for this stylistic difference is the farming and winemaking practices that create the bright type of wine featured here. Grapes are harvested at lower ripeness levels, which means less alcohol and greater acidity in the wines. There is little use of new barrels and this lets the spice and bright fresh-fruit components shine.
As with most wines from Portugal, they are not varietally labelled and are usually blends of several grapes. The reds typically feature native Castelão, Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet and Aragonez (Tempranillo) and more recently Cabernet and Syrah are gaining traction, as well.
This is a hot region so native grapes that are acclimated make the best whites. They are often based on the varietal Antão Vaz, which retains good acidity and tropical fruit flavors, often complemented by Arinto and Roupeiro, which also stay fresh despite the hot climate.
The winemaking philosophy in Alentejo is to create food-friendly wines and they come with alive rustic, hearty fare. Wood-fired meats, bean dishes, root vegetables and salads are great matches.
This region is also dedicated to sustainable practices with about 50 percent of growers complying with this protocol. I am a big fan of this process because it addresses the welfare of the people involved in growing and making wine while also benefitting the planet.
The whole point of our virtual wine tour is to widen our palates while still drinking delicious wine and Alentejo wines ring the bell on both counts. Due to the absence of varietal labelling and the unique style of these wines, be sure to get some input from your favorite wine seller. Cheers.
