QUINTA DO CASAL BRANCO Reserva Red (also known as Quinta do Casal Branco Reserva Tinto) is a premium red wine from Quinta do Casal Branco, a historic family-owned estate (founded in 1775) in the Tejo DOC region (Central Portugal, near Almeirim on the Tagus River’s left bank). The estate covers 1,100 hectares (with ~130–140 ha of vineyards on sandy, flat moorland soils) and focuses on elegant, balanced wines blending Portuguese tradition with modern international appeal.
Key characteristics:
- Grape varieties: Red blend, typically including Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional/Franca, Castelão (Trincadeira), Syrah/Shiraz, and sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon (exact proportions vary by vintage, but often a mix emphasizing structure and fruit).
- Style: Reserva red – modern profile with ripe fruit, subtle oak aging (e.g., 12 months in French oak barrels for smoky/toasty notes), firm yet approachable tannins, and good aging potential.
- Recent vintages: Commonly 2021 (widely available and reviewed); alcohol around 13.5–14%.
- Color: Intense ruby/red with garnet hints.
- Aromas: Ripe red and black fruits (red fruit jam, black plum, wild berries, blackberries), subtle spice (black pepper), smoky/toasty notes from oak, and occasional balsamic or chocolate hints.
- Palate: Full of fruit, soft and fresh entry, evident barrel notes, defined/sweet tannins providing body and structure, velvety texture, balanced acidity, harmonious, persistent finish. Fruity yet elegant with good volume.
- Official/producer notes: Often described as „fruity, soft and fresh with sweet tannins that provide body. Pleasant and persistent.” Emphasizes harmony, ripe fruit, and subtle oak integration for a modern Tejo expression.
- Ratings: Around 3.7–3.9/5 on Vivino (based on user reviews); praised for excellent quality-price ratio, food-friendliness, and value.
- Food pairing: Grilled/red meats, game, stews, charcuterie, hard cheeses, or spicy dishes.
- Serving temperature: 16-18C.
This Reserva highlights Tejo’s potential for approachable yet sophisticated reds from fertile, river-influenced terroir – great for everyday elegance or short-term cellaring.