FROM THE WIRES...
Colorful, sun-drenched Portugal is a favorite travel destination in one of the most flourishing wine regions in the world. This summer, experience the best of Portalegre in the Alentejo region of Portugal through Symington Family Estates’ expertly balanced Quinta da Fonte Souto Red 2018 (SRP $26). Quinta da Fonte Souto is the Symington Family’s first property outside the Douro region, complete with a tasting room and a traditional manor house that has a history of strong connections within the local community.
True to its name—“souto'' meaning chestnut grove—the estate is nestled within a sprawling forested area, home to chestnuts, natural springs, and cork oaks as well as cherry orchards and olive groves. The 511-acre Quinta da Fonte Souto was acquired by the Symington family in 2017 and lies on the slopes of the São Mamede mountain range. The vineyard benefits from the area’s altitude, with its cooler microclimate in sharp contrast to the Alentejo region’s typically hot and dry conditions.
Quinta da Fonte Souto Red is built around the signature grape, Alicante Bouschet, with important contributions from Syrah, Alfrocheiro and old vines. The hand-picked grapes are placed in small, shallow boxes and taken to the on-site winery. This wine exudes aromas of pine forest with hints of resin, pine needles, and a touch of mint, followed by notes of berry fruits and black plum. Bright flavors of blackberries and touch of licorice define the palate that offers a refreshing acidity and a long finish.