A very welcome addition to our (sadly) meagre Portuguese range, this full-flavoured red comes from a small producer with a vineyard next to the Tagus river, just 30 kms north-east of Lisbon. Conversion took place in 1994 but the first vintage wasn't released until 2003 when the desired quality level had been achieved. It's a rich fairly complex and lightly oaked wine which matches rustic honesty with more subtle sophistication and on the palate there's a similar fusion of bitter cherry characters with sweeter, ripe blackcurrant. Ambiguities which are more intriguing than confusing. The finish is dry, lenghty and satisfying.

Grape varieties: Periquita//Tinta Roriz/Mortagua.

13.5%