Quinta do Encontro, Tinto, Bairrada, Portugal 2015
80% Baga, 20% Merlot
BLACK CURRANT FRUIT, LIGHT SPICE, INTENSE FLAVORS
Baga, the primary grape of Bairrada, is known for powerful wines with sometimes tongue-drying tannins. This beauty from Encontro tempers that rustic character with a small addition of Merlot and fully ripened Baga that accentuates its lush, raisiny character. Don’t be afraid – this is an exquisite wine that tastes twice as expensive and shows what can happen when wild grapes are in the hands of a skilled winemaker.
Serving Suggestion: This is a big wine that needs some hearty cuisine, heavy on the protein and low on sweetness. Steak makes sense.