Costco delivers a fantastic Portuguese red blend at a fabulous price, the Jose de Sousa Red from Jose Maria da Fonseca.
A blend of 58% Grand Noir, 22% Trincadeira and 20% Aragones (Tempranillo) from Alentejo, Portugal. Part of the wine is fermented in clay pots with the remainder in stainless steel. All the wine is aged in French and American oak casks (30% new) for 9 months. It is also vegan friendly.
We found the Jose de Sousa Red at Costco for just $14.99 but there are other sellers on wine-searcher at a similar price. The wine has an SRP of $18 and is imported by Palm Bay International.
At Jose de Sousa winery, the winemaking technique of using clay pots is still being used in a very similar way as it was 2,000 years ago, adding spice and depth. Deep red in color, with aromas of dates, chocolate, oak, fig and spices, this wine has a complex fruity and velvety palate. Pairs well with red meat dishes and cheese.
Winemaker: Domingos Soares Franco
Vinification: Partially fermented in clay pots
Oak Ageing: 9 months in 30% New American and French Oak
Vineyard: Herdade do Monte da Ribeira, Reguengos de Monsaraz (granitic soil)14.5% Alcohol
The 2017 Jose de Sousa Red begins with a wonderful aroma full of dark fruit and lots of nicely integrated spice plus touches of tobacco, cola, vanilla and more.
Tasting reveals fantastic deep, dark ripe fruit in this full-bodied and somewhat tannic wine. All the other touches from the nose carry over as well and combine excellently in the mouth. The absolute best part; however, is the extremely long and lingering finish of fruit, cola and spice. I love it.
You may also want to check out more of our favorite wines from Portugal here!
