2021 Aldeia, Case of 6

Produced in Portalegre to the north east of the Alentejo on the granite foothills of the São Mamede mountains, where cooler temperatures, along with many old vines, gives complexity and freshness.

"Mid bluish crimson with a soft pinky/purple rim. Inviting aroma that seems to show a touch of reduction at first (in a nice way), peppery and almost charry though there is no oak influence here, giving the dark fruit a savoury quality. Super-fine tannins, barely chalky, fresh and full of energy with a mineral/crushed-rock aftertaste. In some ways a very contemporary style of unoaked red. Moreish and just a little bit chewy on the finish. Really fresh and pure with a hint of violets as it opens in the glass. Delicious,  especially when served lightly chilled." Julia Harding for Jancis Robinson, 16.5 points.