Herdade do Rocim Vale do Rocim, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal

Black cherry, wild blackberry, and subtle earth rise from the glass with quiet intensity, hinting at depth within. 2021 Herdade do Rocim Vale do Rocim reflects a thoughtful revival of traditional Portuguese winemaking, combining indigenous grape varieties with ancient amphora fermentation techniques. Crafted with patience and precision, the wine expresses the estate’s commitment to honoring regional heritage while pursuing wines of elegance, structure, and longevity.

Product Details:

• Winemakers & Owners: Pedro Ribeiro & Catarina Vieira
  
• Varieties: Trincadeira, Tinta Grossa, Moreto
  
• Alcohol: 13%
  
• Farming: Organic, vegan-friendly
  
• Harvest: Manual harvest with hand sorting
  
• Fermentation: Traditional clay amphora fermentation for 15 days
  
• Aging: Six months in amphora with skin contact, followed by 24 months in 500 L French oak barrels and six months bottle aging before release

Sensory Description:

Deep ruby in the glass, the wine opens with complex aromas of dark berries, fresh plum, and subtle earthy tones layered with mineral accents. The palate reveals impressive depth and structure, balancing concentrated black fruit with lively freshness and mineral tension. Notes of blackberry, cherry, and dried herbs unfold alongside hints of spice and earth, shaped by both amphora fermentation and extended oak maturation. Firm structure and vibrant acidity create a wine of remarkable balance, leading to a long, expressive finish marked by elegance and quiet power.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: 95 Points, Revista de Vinhos
  
• Score: 19 Points, Vinho Grandes Escolhas
  
• Silver: Uva de Ouro, 2023

Winemaker’s Background:

Herdade do Rocim is an estate dedicated to expressing the character of southern Portuguese viticulture through both innovation and respect for tradition. The project was established by the Vieira family and is currently led by Catarina Vieira, an agronomical engineer with advanced studies in enology, alongside Pedro Ribeiro, an experienced winemaker who studied at the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro and gained international experience in Australia. Together, they oversee a modern winery while preserving historic methods such as amphora fermentation, which reflects the region’s ancient winemaking heritage. Their work focuses on elevating indigenous grape varieties and demonstrating the potential of Portuguese wines on the global stage.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16 to 18°C in a large red wine glass to allow the wine’s aromatic complexity and structure to fully unfold. Its depth and savory character pair beautifully with grilled meats, roast beef, lamb dishes, and hearty rustic cuisine.