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Premium Wines Vinho Verde White Wines Red Wines By the glass... Port Wines
Douro Dão Bairrada Ribatejo Estremadura Palmela Alentejo

Vinhos Tintos / Red Wines
Ribatejo / Central Portugal
Ribatejo, located northeast of Lisbon, is a fertile agricultural region that produces lots of grains, legumes, melons, oranges, apples and tomatoes. The Ribatejo, also a highly productive wine region, spans the broad valley of the river Tagus (Tejo) extending from the estuary near Lisbon upstream as far as the towns of Tomar and Abrantes. The region's alluvial soil and temperate climate are conducive to the production of white wines, which dominate wine production. But one can find good reds here, mostly blends of other varietals with Castelão Francês, a fine aromatic varietal with medium tannins and a typical palate of red cherries with a slight spicy finish. Vineyards on the fertile river flood plain produce large amounts of light fruity red and white wine for drinking young. Away from the river, the drier limestone hills to the north plains and the sandy plains to the south tend to produce smaller quantities of fuller flavored wine, some of which is set aside by producers for "garrafeiras."
Casaleiro Reserva 1997 34.00

Reminiscent of a cross between a Syrah and a Pinot Noir, this wine offers plenty of berries, currant and plum in its aroma. On the palate, it is fruity and rich with hints of plum and raspberry. It's a perfect match for red meats, game and cheeses. Grapes: Castelão Francês and Trincadeira Preta.

Falcoaria 1999 41.00

Deep ruby, loaded with berries and chocolate on the nose and palate, this is a full-bodied wine with a long and lingering finish. Grapes: Castelão Francês, Trincadeira Preta and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Casa Cadaval Trincadeira Reserva 2000 49.00

This delicious, medium-bodied, fruit forward wine, exhibits a fragrant nose of black cherries and shows a bit of sweet and coconutty oak. Matured for about 10 months in French oak barrels, it is well structured, showing a good balance between tannins and acidity. It is bright on the palate with notes of chewy berry fruit and a spicy finish. Grape: Trincadeira 100%.

Capucho Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 60.00

The name may sound Italian, but this very Portuguese wine is made in the traditional way -- 100% foot-pressed, it has aromas of spice cassis and new oak. Dry, full-bodied, well balanced and has a pleasant, elegant finish. It pairs well with red meats and codfish dishes. Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon 100%.

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