Herdade de São Miguel, Alantejano (Portugal) 2017

 This is an interesting blend of 50 percent Alicante Bouchet, 30 percent Touriga Nacional, ten percent Syrah and ten percent Cabernet Sauvignon from the Alentejano region of Portugal.  It has enticing aromas of ripe black cherry fruit in juxtaposition with subtle woody herbs such as thyme, tarragon and rosemary and a hint of lemon zest.  The black cherry, plum flavors are concentrated, yet graceful, lifted by sprightly acidity.  We enjoyed it with winter dish of roasted acorn squash, onions and spicy Italian sausage with dried cranberries, savory, spicy and a bit sweet.  It is extraordinary quality for the price.  Alexandre Relvas established his family’s wine company in 1997.  Herdade de São Miguel was their first winery completed in 2003.  He picked this area because he was convinced that he could produce robust and vigorous wines, without losing freshness.  This wine is a perfect example.