2021 Cartuxa Winery EA Red Wine, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal

From: Évora, Alentejo, PortugalVarietal: Aragonez (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet, and CastelãoTaste: In the glass, it shows a deep garnet hue. The nose is fresh and intense, with rich aromas of wild fruits, figs, and hints of rockrose (Mediterranean evergreen with herbal, earthy, and slightly floral undertones, often compared to a blend of pine, citrus, and warm spices). On the palate, it offers good volume with smooth tannins and abundant ripe fruit flavors. Balanced acidity provides great intensity, leading to a persistent finish with notes of cut herb and wild berries. Pairing: For Iberian fare, pair it with Arroz de Pato, a traditional Portuguese duck rice dish baked with shredded duck, chouriço, and aromatic spices that harmonize with the wine’s fruity and herbal notes. Lamb chops with romesco sauce, a Catalonian specialty featuring a smoky, nutty sauce made from roasted peppers and almonds, is another excellent match, as is chorizo and manchego-stuffed peppers, whe