Quinta Vila Rachel A União Faz a Força 2022

Quinta Vila Rachel makes A Uniao Faz a Forca in the Douro of northern Portugal, the name meaning that unity gives strength, a nod to the old field blend at its heart. It draws on a co-planted mix of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Mourisco, Tinta Carvalha and other local varieties. The Douro's steep schist terraces are the key to the wine: the heat-retaining stone and free-draining soils give the fruit its mineral spine, while careful picking holds the alcohol to a fresh 12.5%. The estate is farmed organically and the wine is made naturally with minimal intervention, then aged in stainless steel. The inert tank preserves the bright primary fruit and keeps the many varieties in focus without oak. The colour is a vivid medium ruby. The nose shows red and dark berry, with dried herbs, violet and a schist-driven stony note. The palate is light to medium bodied, fresh and juicy, the tannins fine and the finish dry and savoury. This is a Douro field blend made for early, easy drinking. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees, lightly cool. It suits a wide range of everyday dishes.