Curral Teles Alfa Tinto 2021

Mateus Nicolau de Almeida belongs to the fifth generation of one of the Douro's established Port families, and Curral Teles is his table wine project in the valley's schist terraces. The blend draws on Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca, the classic Douro varieties, grown on broken schist soils that drain freely and force the vines to root deep for water. The steep slopes and intense summer heat are balanced by altitude and cool nights, which keep acidity firm and the fruit dark rather than jammy. This wine is raised for eight months in concrete tanks rather than oak, an approach that preserves the grape and soil character without adding wood flavour, while the inert material allows a slow, gentle micro-oxygenation that rounds the texture. The colour is dark ruby. The nose is plum and red berry with dried herbs, black pepper and a clear mineral note from the schist. The palate is medium bodied and savoury, with grippy but ripe tannins and a dry, stony finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It pairs well with grilled red meat, game and mushroom dishes.