ProducerVallegre
RegionDouro
GrapesTinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão
AgeingAn average of 5 years in oak casks
Alcohol20%vol

Producer	Vallegre
Region	Douro
Grapes	Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão
Ageing	An average of 5 years in oak casks
Alcohol	20%vol
Serving	Ready to drink, no need to decant Store upright, at a constant temperature and away from direct light Keeps 8-10 weeks once opened

A Tawny Reserve with caramel, raisins and candied fruit.

Tasting note

Light brown with orange hues. Very aromatic, with caramel, dried fruit, raisins and floral notes. A fruity finish with hints of candied fruit, and very long.

The story

The Port is made the traditional way: after partial destemming and light pressing, fermentation takes place on the skins at a controlled temperature and is stopped with grape spirit. The wine is a blend aged for an average of five years in oak casks.

A tawny ages for a long time in oak casks. Slow contact with air makes it browner in colour and less fruity than a ruby, with notes of dried fruit and nuts.

Food pairing

Chilled as an aperitif with dried fruit. Also excellent with desserts made with chocolate, fresh fruit and red or wild berries, and a treat with strong cheeses and foie gras.

The producer

Vallegre is based at Quinta da Vista Alegre, in the Cima Corgo, on the right bank of the Douro between the mouth of the Pinhão and Covas do Douro. The quinta’s vineyards have been making wine since the 19th century. The quinta belongs to the Cunha Barros family, and in 1998 the company took the name Vallegre, a blend of its two main quintas: Valle Longo and Vista Alegre.

At Quinta da Vista Alegre the grapes for Port are still foot-trodden in old stone lagares. Besides Port, Vallegre also makes unfortified Douro wines.

Critics & Awards

16/20 Revista de Vinhos