Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021

Portuguese wines are enjoying growing respect worldwide. Long underestimated, they increasingly reveal complex aromas and high quality. Alentejo, a region in southern Portugal, plays a key role in this. Here, red wines with a distinctive character are created, shaped by a sun-drenched climate and diverse soils. “Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021” – a Herdade is a traditional Portuguese estate – embodies this development. It is an expression of a modern style that combines tradition and innovation. This red wine from Alentejo is distinguished by balanced fruitiness and elegant structure. A promising taste experience awaits you.

Alentejo – Home of Wine

Alentejo covers almost a third of Portugal. Vast plains, rolling hills and cork oak trees characterise the landscape. Vines root in various soil types, including clay, limestone, and schist. This diversity influences the aroma profile of the wines. Historically, Alentejo was a grain-growing region. It was only in recent decades that viticulture experienced a renaissance, driven by EU funding and committed winemakers. Today, Alentejo is one of the most promising wine regions in Portugal. Warm, dry summers and mild winters create ideal conditions for the ripening process. The location at the gates of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city, underscores the cultural importance of the region.

Herdade da Calada – Tradition Meets Modernity

Herdade da Calada looks back on a long history. The estate was founded as early as 1854 and changed hands several times over the years. Since 2007, it has been in the hands of a Portuguese-French couple. Maria and Jean-Claude Penauille invested in the modernisation of the winery, but placed emphasis on preserving the historical charm. Eduardo Cardeal took over the winemaking and shapes the profile of the wines with precision and innovative spirit. 55 hectares are planted with vines, on which 18 different grape varieties thrive. The grapes are gently pressed, exclusively by gravity. They then mature in large wooden vats or French barriques.

Aromatic Diversity – Taste Profile of the Wine

This Portuguese red wine reveals a deep ruby colour in the glass. Ripe red fruits characterise the bouquet. Notes of sour cherry and plum compote dominate, complemented by earthy aromas of beetroot. A hint of smoky bacon and pickled black olive adds extra complexity to the wine. The palate shows a surprising acidity. Soft tannins provide a pleasant mouthfeel. Elderberry and cassis unfold on the palate. Nuances of coffee, dark caramel and balsamic herbs can be found in the finish. A balanced blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira and Alicante Bouschet.

Grape Varieties – Aragonez, Trincadeira, Syrah

Aragonez, also known as Tempranillo in Spain, is one of the most important grape varieties of Alentejo. It gives the wine's body and structure. Trincadeira brings aromas of red fruits and a pleasant acidity. Syrah, an international grape variety, contributes complex aromas and a spicy note. The combination of these three grape varieties creates a harmonious balance. The character of the wine is elegant yet powerful. Syrah, originally from the Rhône Valley, also thrives in the warm climates of Portugal. It is known for its dark berries, spicy notes and good ageing potential.

Vintage 2021 – A Promising Year

The 2021 vintage in Alentejo was characterised by ideal weather conditions. Sufficient rainfall in spring ensured a good water supply for the vines. A warm summer with plenty of sunshine allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes. The harvest took place at a favourable time. The grapes showed a high concentration of aromas and sugar. This vintage promises wines with intense fruit and elegant structure. “Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021” benefits from these conditions and shows a special balance and harmony.

Maturation – 20 Months in Barrique

After fermentation, this red wine from Alentejo matured for 20 months in French barriques. Maturation in wood adds extra complexity to the wine. Aromas of vanilla and coffee combine with the fruity notes. The tannins become softer and more harmonious, while the wine retains its freshness and elegance. Barrique ageing is an important part of the winemaking process at Herdade da Calada and helps to underline the quality and character of the wines.

Vinho Regional – Quality Feature

The designation “Vinho Regional” identifies wines with a protected regional designation of origin. These wines must meet certain quality standards and are made from grapes grown in a delimited area. The designation of origin guarantees the authenticity and quality of the wine. “Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021” is a Vinho Regional Alentejano, meaning it is made from grapes grown in the Alentejo wine region.

Presentation

The wine bottle with a volume of 0.75 l is presented in a classic shape. The dark glass protects the wine from light exposure. The label is simple and elegant. A grey coat of arms adorns the white label. The name of the wine, “VALE DACALADA”, is displayed in striking, orange capital letters. Below is the name of the winery, “HERDADE DACALADA”, in bright orange. The label conveys an impression of tradition and quality. The cork closure also bears the logo of the winery.

Culinary Accompaniment – Perfect Harmony

This red wine from Alentejo is a versatile companion to various dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meat, game dishes and strong cheeses. It also harmonises beautifully with Mediterranean specialities such as pasta with tomato sauce or lamb cutlets. The fruity aromas and soft tannins complement the flavours of the dishes in a harmonious way. The wine is suitable both as an accompaniment to food and as a soloist, and is a pleasure for every occasion.

Price-Performance Ratio

With a price of around €8, “Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021” offers an exceptional price-performance ratio. For this price range, the wine offers remarkable quality and complexity. It is an excellent choice for wine lovers looking for a high-quality red wine from Portugal. An unbeatable offer that convinces.

Conclusion

“Herdade da Calada Vale da Calada 2021” is a versatile and expressive red wine from Alentejo. The combination of traditional winemaking and modern know-how creates a harmonious taste experience. The wine convinces with its fruity aromas, its soft tannins and its elegant structure. It is an ideal companion to various dishes and a pleasure for every occasion. With its exquisite price-performance ratio, it is a clear recommendation for wine lovers. A wine that reflects the diversity and quality of the Portuguese wine region Alentejo.