Herdade do Rocim, Alentejo DOC (Portugal) 2019

 Portugal remains the source of beautifully priced reds and whites, as this mid-weight red shows.  It’s a blend of autochthonous grapes whose names are unfamiliar to most, Moreto, Tinta Grossa, Triccadeira and Aragonez, so unsurprisingly, the flavors that emerge from the glass are unique.  Fermentation and aged in terracotta amphorae with native yeast suggests that Herdade do Rocim is one of those producers that has embraced traditional winemaking techniques.  This mid-weight wine delivers a lovely combination of juicy black fruit and spicy notes wrapped in suave tannins.  The fresh and lively red could easily be chilled slightly for enjoyment this summer with, say, grilled bluefish.