Superior Tinto DOC Beira Interior 2019

Vineyards

Quinta do Cardo, Portugal’s first certified organic vineyard since 2009, is located at 750 metres above sea level in the Beira Interior region. The high altitude provides natural protection against pests and diseases, enhancing the purity of the fruit and allowing for sustainable organic practices. The Superior Tinto 2019 is crafted from a blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alfrocheiro, and Alicante Bouschet, sourced from vines rooted in granite-rich soils with elements of schist and sand. The combination of soil composition and altitude ensures wines of remarkable freshness, structure, and elegance.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a meticulous selection process. After a cold pre-fermentation maceration to extract colour and flavour, fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, enhancing complexity and refining the tannins. Minimal intervention ensures the wine authentically reflects its organic, high-altitude origins.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, indicating concentration and maturity.

Nose

The bouquet is expressive and layered, featuring ripe black fruits such as blackberries and plums, with floral notes of violets, balsamic undertones, and a touch of spice from the oak ageing.

Palate

Full-bodied and harmonious, the wine reveals flavours of dark fruits and black cherries, complemented by subtle hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and dried herbs. The fine-grained tannins are well-integrated, balanced by a vibrant acidity that leads to a long, elegant finish with a touch of minerality.

Food pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, slow-cooked beef, or game dishes such as venison. It also complements hearty vegetable stews, mushroom-based dishes, and a selection of aged cheeses.

Background story

Established in 1932, Quinta do Cardo is a trailblazer in organic viticulture and a benchmark for sustainable winemaking in Portugal. Its high-altitude vineyards, certified organic since 2009, thrive in granite-rich soils and are shaped by a Mediterranean-influenced climate. The estate’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and producing wines that reflect their pristine terroir has made Quinta do Cardo a leader in Portuguese viticulture. The name "Cardo" (milk thistle) symbolizes the estate’s connection to nature and its dedication to crafting wines of purity and character.