Quinta do Montalto 'Vinha da Malhada' Tinto, Lisboa, Portugal

Amid the rolling hills of Lisbon’s countryside, where the Atlantic breeze meets the warmth of Mediterranean sun, the 2021 Quinta do Montalto Vinha da Malhada Tinto captures the grace and vitality of organically farmed Portuguese terroir. Crafted from a classic blend of Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, and Trincadeira, this elegant red embodies both the heritage and innovation that define Quinta do Montalto’s century-old legacy.

Product Details:

• Grape Varieties: Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira
• Production: 10,600 bottles
• Bottling Date: 2022
• Climate: Mediterranean with Atlantic influence
• Soil Type: Clayey-chalky
• Fermentation: Destemmed, crushed, and fermented with skin maceration in stainless steel tanks
• Aging: Stainless steel maturation before bottling to preserve freshness and fruit purity
• Alcohol: 13%
• pH: 3.4
• Residual Sugar: <0.6 g/L
• Total Acidity: 6.39 g/L
• Winemakers: Luís Mendes & Carlos Santos
• Certification: Ecocert-Portugal (Certified Organic)

Sensory Description:

In the glass, Vinha da Malhada reveals a concentrated ruby hue, glimmering with youth. The bouquet unfolds with bright red berries and wild herbs, accented by subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers a beautiful balance between fruit and structure, juicy flavors of raspberry and cherry giving way to hints of spice and cocoa. Firm yet refined tannins underscore its youthful energy, while a thread of minerality carries through to a clean, medium-length finish. Elegant and honest, it reflects the character of its Atlantic-influenced soils.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in the late 19th century, Quinta do Montalto has been family-owned for over five generations. Established by Mariano Gomes Pereira Baptista in 1880 and nurtured by his descendants, the estate spans more than fifty hectares of vineyards and farmland near Vila Nova de Ourém. Under the stewardship of Joaquim Gomes Pereira and the family’s current generation, Quinta do Montalto has fully embraced organic farming, guided by a philosophy of respect for nature and authenticity. The estate’s wines, crafted by winemakers Luís Mendes and Carlos Santos, express a deep connection to the land, uniting traditional Portuguese varieties with sustainable, forward-thinking viticulture.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve between 16–18°C after brief aeration to allow its red fruit and spice notes to unfold. This wine pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, grilled red meats, and aged cheeses such as Serra da Estrela or Manchego. It also complements mushroom risotto or lentil stew for a hearty vegetarian pairing. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated cellar (around 15°C, 60% humidity) and enjoy now or over the next ten years.

Balanced, expressive, and true to its origins, the 2021 Quinta do Montalto Vinha da Malhada Tinto stands as a testament to the enduring artistry of Portuguese winemaking, where family heritage, organic farming, and timeless terroir come together in every glass.