While more well known for their fortified eponymous wines, Portugal's 'regular' still wines give great insight to how their fortified cousins have fared so well over the centuries: the base wines are flat-out delicious. The potential for greatness is there: the terroir, the passion, the history; the components are available to make world-class wines. That this wine is as good as it is for such a reasonable price is a great sign for the future of Portugese (non-Port) wines. This is the kind of wine we like to find for our Wine of the Month slot-- solid wine that overdelivers for a fair cost.
Vila Santa is produced in the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal. Its name originates from the title given in the 15th century to the members of the ancient Priest Congregation of St. John Evangelist, known simply as Loios. Loios monks have always had a deep connection to the history of Alentejo, especially to its wines. Thus, this wine has been named after them and is made from traditional grape varieties of the region. The Vinho is a blend of traditional red varieties from this region: Aragonês, Trincadeira, and Castelão. After a careful selection and pressing, the juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks, perfectly preserving the unique, fresh fruit character of each variety.
The nose is filled with red fruits, red plum in the foreground, as nuances of cedar and redwood, underbrush and forest floor resonate in the background. Beautiful blend of scents: ripe red fruits and savory notions. Red fruits again are the primary focus upon tasting, with flavors of red plum and fruit leather joined by mixed blackberries, blueberries and black raspberries. The fruit is harmoniously balanced by a firm backbone of moderating tannins and fine acidity. Light earthy, savory flecks round out the fruits as the lengthy finish slowly recedes, joyfully satiating. Think barbecue, birds, pasta and grilled meat dishes. Great for Spring and Summer!
Vila Santa is produced in the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal. Its name originates from the title given in the 15th century to the members of the ancient Priest Congregation of St. John Evangelist, known simply as Loios. Loios monks have always had a deep connection to the history of Alentejo, especially to its wines. Thus, this wine has been named after them and is made from traditional grape varieties of the region. The Vinho is a blend of traditional red varieties from this region: Aragonês, Trincadeira, and Castelão. After a careful selection and pressing, the juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks, perfectly preserving the unique, fresh fruit character of each variety.
The nose is filled with red fruits, red plum in the foreground, as nuances of cedar and redwood, underbrush and forest floor resonate in the background. Beautiful blend of scents: ripe red fruits and savory notions. Red fruits again are the primary focus upon tasting, with flavors of red plum and fruit leather joined by mixed blackberries, blueberries and black raspberries. The fruit is harmoniously balanced by a firm backbone of moderating tannins and fine acidity. Light earthy, savory flecks round out the fruits as the lengthy finish slowly recedes, joyfully satiating. Think barbecue, birds, pasta and grilled meat dishes. Great for Spring and Summer!
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