This Portuguese red from Alentejano hits the spot!

WTN: `04 Encostas de Estremoz Vinho Regional Alentejano Grande Escolho.

Recently spotted downtown, $26 Cdn, 14.5% alc, lot 5107, opened one hour, not decanted. Jose Castro Duarte and Miquel Catarino i/c here. Up and coming estate it would appear.
Blend of Alicante Bouschet, T Nacional, T Franca, Cab Sauv.

Color. Medium cherry/plum, watery rim with no sign of age.

Nose. Touch of oak, earthy, spice, plum. All very tempting in my book.

Palate. Initial thoughts were dry, complex, integrated tannins, great mouthfeel, great cedar box/spice on long finish. Not a big ripe fruit bomb here forumites, smooth with good blackfruit balance. Some blueberry on day 2, softened up somewhat overnight. This red is very representative of Portugal I think, going back for more!

Food was pork scallopini with a mushroom basil sauce.

Here is my take on the 2005 Encostas.

Light dull ruby-red. Soft aromatics, plum, cherry, some warmth here like the `04. Initial entry shows hints of ripe black fruits, integrated tannins, nice balance and finish. Held up very well over 3 days, showing some earthiness and roasted coffee, blackberry.

Great with roasted chicken legs, fennel and mushrooms.