Quinta de Saes Tinto, Dao, Portugal

The 2020 Quinta de Saes Tinto from Dão, Portugal, is a quintessential expression of this increasingly celebrated wine region. Crafted by renowned winemaker Álvaro Castro and his daughter Maria, this field-blend red wine reflects the Dão’s granitic soils, cool mountain climate, and dedication to native Portuguese varieties. Vibrant, balanced, and mineral-driven, it captures the spirit of the land with clarity and finesse.

Product Details:

• Varietal Composition: 25% Touriga Nacional, 25% Alfrocheiro, 25% Jaen, 25% Tinta Pinheira
• Appellation: Dão DOC, Portugal
• Farming: Sustainable
• Elevation: 500 meters (1,640 feet)
• Soils: Granite with lines of clay and sand
• Alcohol: 13%
• Vinification: Cold maceration for 10 days; fermented with wild yeasts in stainless steel; aged 18 months in second- and third-use large French oak casks
• Production: Approx. 2,250 cases annually

Sensory Description:

In the glass, this wine reveals a bright ruby-garnet hue with violet reflections at the rim. The nose is complex and inviting, opening with bright notes of red cherry, pomegranate, rose petal, and candied violet, layered over a stony, flinty mineral base. On the palate, it is elegant and fresh, showcasing flavors of cherry and crushed red berries, subtle spice, and florals. A beam of vibrant acidity and refined tannins leads to a long, mineral-laced finish.

Winemaker's Background:

The Castro family’s legacy at Quinta da Pellada and Quinta de Saes dates back centuries, with documented wine production as far back as 1527. Álvaro Castro revived the estate in 1980, and since 1989, his wines have gained a devoted following for their authenticity and grace. Joined by his daughter Maria in 2001, the Castros continue to champion indigenous varieties and sustainable viticulture, crafting wines that express the purity and natural beauty of their high-elevation vineyards.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F). This wine is a versatile partner to a range of dishes—pair it with roast poultry, game, mushroom risottos, or umami-rich vegetarian fare. Its elegance and acidity also make it a beautiful accompaniment to grilled meats and herb-laced stews.

This is a wine of precision and soul—one that speaks to the distinct terroir of Dão and the hands that tend its vines. A benchmark red from a legendary estate, the 2020 Quinta de Saes Tinto promises both immediate pleasure and cellaring potential.