Monte da Penha Gerações Reserva Tinto 2004

Producer
Portalegre is one of the most promising wine regions — not only in Alentejo but in all of Portugal. The Fino family were pioneers here, first connected to the iconic Tapada do Chaves estate, and after its sale in 1998, to Monte da Penha, planted in the 1980s on beautiful granite-based vineyards along the slopes of Serra de São Mamede, at 400 to 550 metres altitude. These wines age superbly, and the estate’s library of old vintages is a rare treasure that tells the story and geography of this remarkable region. Since 2020, talented winemaker Susana Esteban has been at the helm.

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Wine
Monte da Penha Gerações Reserva 2004
Region: Alentejo (Portalegre, Portugal)
Altitude: 450–600 metres
Soil: Granite
Grapes: Alicante Bouschet, Aragonês (Tempranillo), Trincadeira

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An Authentic Aged Alentejo Red
An age-worthy, authentic red, deeply connected to the winemaking history of Portalegre in the Alto Alentejo. This Monte da Penha Gerações Reserva 2004 comes from a manual selection of Alicante Bouschet, Aragonês, and Trincadeira from small vineyard parcels planted in 1987. Grown on granite soils at 450–600 metres altitude, the resulting wine offers freshness and balance rarely seen in the region.

Aged for one year in French Allier oak barrels (250 and 500 L), this red shows seamless oak integration while preserving varietal and terroir character. After nearly two decades of bottle ageing, it now reveals a complex bouquet of dried fruits, leather, fine spices, and earthy undertones.

On the palate, it is structured, deep, and enveloping, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity ensuring freshness and persistence. A true testament to the ageing potential of Alentejo wines, particularly from the high-altitude zones of Portalegre. A Portuguese red perfectly matured under ideal conditions!

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Vinification and Ageing
Manual harvest with vineyard selection
Traditional fermentation with temperature control
12 months ageing in French Allier oak barrels (250 L and 500 L)
Extended bottle ageing prior to release

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Tasting Notes
Ruby-garnet with amber reflections
Deep nose of dried fruit, spices, leather, and balsamic hints
Firm structure, elegant tannins, granite-driven freshness, long and persistent finish

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Suggested Pairings
Wild game (wild boar, venison)
Oven-roast kid
Intensely aged cheeses
Traditional Alentejo stews (lamb, slow-cooked dishes)

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