A great example of one of our favorite value combinations, red blends from Portugal. The Casa De Santar Vinho Tinto.
40% Touriga Nacional, 40% Aragonez and 20% Alfrocheiro from Dao, Portugal. The wine was aged in French oak barrels.
Sample submitted for review. The Casa De Santar Tinto has an SRP of $11 but is available for as low as $8. Imported by Tri-vin Imports.
Intense, elegant, balanced and showing good structure.
Serve at 64F.
Food Pairing: Baked or steamed fish, pasta, red meat and medium-curd cheeses.
French oak barrel aging. Good aging potential.13.5% Alcohol
Whether it's the little known grapes, the association with Port or something else entirely, table wines from Portugal don't get nearly the recognition they deserve, especially in the under $20 category. Along with Spanish Garnacha, California Petite Sirah and South African Chenin Blanc, Portuguese red blends are one of the most reliable categories for Reverse Wine Snobs.
The 2015 Casa De Santar Vinho Tinto begins with a pleasing aroma of black cherry, spice, licorice and vanilla. Taking a sip reveals a smooth, dry, balanced and tasty wine. Medium to full-bodied, it features lots of ripe dark fruit with nicely integrated oaky undertones. It's quite a good blend especially at this low price. It ends with a long, mouth-drying finish of lingering licorice, dark fruit and vanilla. This is great stuff!
Ready to buy? Check your local retailers.
