Alentejo - Red
It’s not often that the Alentejo secures more places on the Gold List than the Douro – in fact, we don’t think it’s ever done it before. But it managed it this year. Moreover, judging by the feedback from our tasters, there’s no reason it can’t happen again.
Key to the region’s success was, broadly speaking, plenty of ripe fruit to make the wines instantly appealing to the public, and enough structure to keep food-matchers happy. Not only that, but, unlike the Douro, for instance, there was no shortage of decent entries at listable prices. Seventy per cent of all the wines to pick up an award here were under £14, with half of our medal winners under £10.
This looks like a region to watch out for next year. Can the Alentejo press on from here?
From The Tasting Teams
‘These were very interesting, from the entry level to the top end. There was good ripeness and well-integrated oak. There’s a lot of alcohol from the warmer climate, but none were out of balance.’ Marco Marcuzzo, Zuma Rome
‘You expect high acidity and tannins, but there are nice fruit characteristics too. At £8-£12 you can find very interesting wines here, though above that you might struggle.’ Michael Fiducia, Royal Automobile Club
‘It’s nice to see some wines outside of the Douro. The lower prices worked particularly well, with good typicity. It’s a region that has value for money, and you could age some too.’ Lionel Periner, team leader
‘From my experience over the years, when you go to Portugal, you’re not disappointed. It’s never the wrong choice.’ Elena Serban, Heritage Restaurant
‘These were full bodied, with high tannins, but drinking well. And good value too.’ Marco Marcuzzo, Zuma Rome
‘As an up-and-coming region, the Alentejo is a rising star.’ Michael Fiducia, Royal Automobile Club