Cartuxa, Alentejo (Portugal) “Évora” Tinto Reserva 2018 ( $71, Tri-Vin Imports)

Alentejo sits up the Tejo river from Lisbon, Portugal and is home to a wide range of wines. Cartuxa, part of the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, has made their Reserva into a nicely balanced, yet powerful red. Comprised of 70% Alicante Bouschet and 30% Aragonez, Evora is booming with red fruit, vanilla, chocolate, and tobacco notes that, along with its 15% alcohol, provide a rich structure to the wine’s body. The tannins are almost delicate but quickly build with each sip, providing a juxtaposition between soft and bold. This wine is drinking wonderfully now and is ready to drink upon opening the bottle. Enjoy now through 2028.
92 Vince Simmon