Adega Monte Branco ‘X Anos’ Red 2014

Alentejo, Portugal

Tasting Notes:

The blend that comprises this wine is very evident right from the nose with dry, vegetal aromatics mixed with austere fruit, balsamic notes and spices. The tannins in this wine are powerful and the acidity is very lively, giving this wine tons of backbone and freshness of flavor. Great aging potential.

Pair it With:

This is an absolutely great wine to enjoy with food. Consider enjoying it alongside some richer dishes like lamb stews, grilled meats and dishes with tomato based sauces. It has enough tannin and acidity to make it a great pairing with ribeye and strip steaks as well.

Climate:

Continental Mediterranean. Warm and dry days with large daily temperature amplitude.

Soils:

Schist and Calcareous.

Grape Varieties:

50% Alicante Bouschet, 30% Aragonez, 20% Trincadeira.

Winemaking Process:

Hand Harvested. Total de-stemming. Cold pre-fermentation maceration for 3 days. Fermentation in temperature controlled open top tanks at 26/27°C.

Aging:

1 year in 300L French Oak Barrels (80% new).

Bottles produced:

1,800

Winemaker:

Luís Louro and Inês Capão

Chemical Analysis:

Alcohol: 14%

pH: 3.46

Total Acidity: 6.7 g/L

Reducing Sugars: 0.7 g/L