LagardeDarei

<p>The Darei Tinto is a traditional blend of four of the local grape varieties of the Dão region, Touriga Nacional, Jaen (Mencia) Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) and Alfrocheiro.With a high elevated granitic terrain and the humidity from the Dão river which meanders through the estate, the climate is perfect for creating fresh and lively wines with remarkable acidity. The organic grapes are hand picked and sorted, then de-stemmed to begin a natural fermentation in both stainless steel and cement tanks. A gentle press removes the skin from the wine, and malolactic fermentation takes place in large cement vats, where it remains for 15 months before bottling and a further year of ageing. The wine is complex and earthy but with bright cherry fruit and balanced acidity.All of Carlos’ wines impressed me, but perhaps fittingly for a Dão producer, it was the reds that stole the show, packed with juicy red fruit and Mediterranean herbs and a firm, sinewy texture that feels very typical of the region. tannins, yet restrained and elegant. Simon Woolf – The Morning ClaretLagar de Darei – The Wine Line</p>