Beautifully defined dark fruit framed with toasty oak.
A blend that changes slightly each year, the last few vintages of this wine have been on fire. Beautifully defined dark fruit (there always seems to be a generous lick of cassis in this wine, even when the Cabernet component is actually quite modest), just a frame of toasty oak (although that roasted Alentejo character amalgamates with that too), and just enough Alicante crunch to keep it all fresh and energetic.
This is a family run winery, in the heart of Redondo, with a deep love and understanding of the viticultural heritage of their region. Alexandre Relvas started in 1997, and his two sons Alexandre Jr and António now run the show, ably supported by Head Winemaker Nuno Franco and his team at the Pimenta Winery.
Herdade São Miguel is the original, flagship estate which comprises 35 Ha of vineyard as well as Cork forest and olive groves and a heathy flock of Merino sheep.
In a move to secure more quality grapes, they purchased the Pimenta Winery and it's 150 Ha estate - 60 Ha of vineyards and 90 Ha of Cork forest - around Sao Miguel de Machede, and another 70 Ha of vineyards near Vidigueira. Other vineyards around the wineries are rented and managed by the team.
The wines are bold in expression, varied in style and authenticity shines through them all.
The family develop their enterprise locally and globally, committing to ambitious environmentally sustainable and socially responsible policies so the benefits are shared, and added value is retained.
The wine is harvested during the night to retain freshness. Maceration before fermentation during 48h. Fermentation with controlled temperature (22ºC-28ºC) in stainless steel vats. Maceration after fermentation between 5 and 10 days.
Aged for 4 months in 400L Barrels
Mediterranean food plus pasta, lamb, poultry and soft cheeses.
