2021 Now finished: MARIANA, Herdade do Rocim. Alentejo, Portugal

The Alentejo is comparable to the Languedoc-Roussillon in France – a large, warm, wild wine region which has long under-performed but which is now making some of the country’s most exciting wines.

40% Touriga Nacional, 30% Arragonez, 20% Alicante Bouschet, 10% Trincadeira; all fermented in steel vats, using natural yeast, before a brief 3 month maturation in 300 and 500 litre (old) oak barrels.

From their UK agent, HN wines:
“Herdade do Rocim is an estate located between Vidigueira and Cuba, in the Lower Alentejo. It comprises 120 hectares, 70 of which are made up of vineyards and 10 hectares of olive trees. Since its inception in 2000, Herdade do Rocim has invested heavily in the vineyards, replanting vines and introducing new varieties. They are pioneers in ‘amphora wines’, following the ancient traditions of vinification in pots known as ‘Tahla’. The vineyard is cultivated manually and minimal intervention is used in the cellar, to produce fresh, elegant and mineral wines. In 2018, Herdade do Rocim was awarded Best Wine Producer by Revista de Vinhos.”

Truly excellent value. All the intensity and character you would expect from a Portuguese red, but great vine management and skilful winemaking result in a softer, gentler texture than is the norm.