CARTUXA Évora Colheita I.G.T. / DOC Alentejano Tinto (also known as Cartuxa Évora Colheita Red or Foral de Évora Colheita in some references) is a premium, full-bodied red wine from the Évora sub-region of Alentejo, Portugal. Produced by Fundação Eugénio de Almeida at Adega Cartuxa, it represents the estate’s flagship expression, blending traditional Alentejo varieties with careful oak aging for structure, elegance, and aging potential.
Color
Deep ruby with garnet reflections, intense and bright.
Aroma
Complex and aromatic with notes of ripe black fruits (black plum, black cherry, forest fruits), violets, and subtle spice. Oak aging adds elegant touches of vanilla, chocolate, and toast.
Taste
Full-bodied and structured on the palate, with rich black and red fruit flavors, integrated tannins, good freshness, and a velvety texture. It finishes long, harmonious, and persistent, balancing power with elegance.
Technical Characteristics
- Producer: Fundação Eugénio de Almeida / Adega Cartuxa (historic producer with vineyards in Évora since the 16th century).
- Appellation: DOC Alentejo – Évora (often listed as I.G.T. / Vinho Regional Alentejano in broader contexts).
- Grape varieties: Blend of Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, and sometimes Castelao (proportions vary by vintage; e.g., approx. 40% Aragonez, 40% Alicante Bouschet, 20% Trincadeira in some years).
- Production: Grapes from estate vineyards (often old vines). Temperature-controlled fermentation with extended maceration. Aged in oak barrels (typically 12 months in French oak) followed by bottle aging (around 9 months) before release.
- Alcohol: 14.0–14.5% vol.
- Residual sugar: Very low (approx. 0.9–1.2 g/l) — dry style.
- Formats: Primarily 750 ml bottles.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Temperature: 16–18°C.
- Storage after opening: 3–5 days in a cool place.
- Food pairings: Excellent with red meats (roast beef, lamb, grilled steaks), game, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and rich Portuguese dishes. Suitable for special occasions or cellaring (potential 8–12+ years).
Ratings and Recognition
Consistently well-rated (often 90–93 points from critics like James Suckling, Jamie Goode, and others) for its concentration, balance, and value in the premium Alentejo segment. It is prized for its typicity and aging capacity.