Herdade de Sao Miguel, Alentejano (Portugal) 2017

 Dry table wines from Portugal, particularly the reds, continue to reign in the realm of value.  This beauty is a red blend that takes advantage of the indigenous Alicante Bouschet and Touriga Nacional along with small percentages of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to create a complex aroma profile of red and black fruits along with a strong presence of wood that complements rather than conflicts, and a subtle whiff of lead pencil/graphite that completes the package.