Region
The region of Estremadura extends north and west of Lisbon, following the rugged Atlantic coastline.The windswept rolling landscape is dotted with old windmills and modern wind turbines overseeing vineyards and pine forest. It is Portugal`s third largest wine producing region in volume terms, but arguably the source of the country`s best value table wines. Most of the region enjoys a maritime climate that allows production of fresh whites and balanced red wines. The last ten years have seen a surge of ambitious small growers making far more interesting wines across a wide selection of grape varietals.
Producer
The dominant figure in Estremadura, where the IGP Lisboa wines are produced, is winemaker José Neiva, of DFJ Vinhos. At his imposing `wine cathedral` he makes a broad range of overtly appealing red wines characterised by their ripe, accessible fruit, lush textures and good concentration, and clean citrusy whites, all at very reasonable prices. Neiva is quite open about the interventionist winemaking techniques that he uses to wring every drop of flavour from his grapes resulting in a very modern fruit lead style that highlights the natural flavours of a myriad of native varieties.
Tasting (Long)
Made by Jose Neiva, Portugal’s leading winemaker at Quinta da Fonte Bella in central Portugal. This well flavoured red from the cool Atlantic influenced vineyards of Estremadura (north of Lisbon) uses a combination of the Portuguese varieties Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro, with Merlot to add richness and supple mouthfeel. The deep ruby colour of this wine indicates its full bodied, fruity style offering aromas of blackcurrant, leather and spice. It has a delicious, rich, concentrated flavour of ripe berry fruits, yet is well structured and extremely smooth on the palate.
Tasting (Short)
A full bodied, fruity red, offering aromas of blackcurrant, leather and spice. It has a delicious, rich, concentrated flavour of ripe berry fruits, yet is well structured and extremely smooth on the palate.
Food
It will accompany a many red meats, game, pasta and vegetarian dishes and a wide variety of cheeses.