Casa da Passarella O Fugitivo Tinta Amarela 2018 Red Wine

Casa da Passarella O Fugitivo Tinta Amarela is a unique red wine from Portugal's Dão region, produced by the esteemed Casa da Passarella. This wine is a single varietal, made exclusively from the Tinta Amarela grape (also known as Trincadeira or Rufete). The winery's approach highlights this indigenous grape, historically present in the region's old vineyards, aiming to revive and showcase its distinctive characteristics. Fermentation occurs spontaneously in granite lagares with partial stems, followed by approximately 24 months of aging in 500-liter barrels (both new and used), and further bottle aging, contributing to its sophistication and aging potential.

On the tasting notes, O Fugitivo Tinta Amarela typically exhibits a lighter color, characteristic of the grape. The aroma reveals vegetal notes and spices, with a prominent presence of black pepper, along with hints of red fruits, currant, root, and licorice. On the palate, it is described as a well-balanced and elegant wine, with firm yet fine tannins and a long, persistent finish, noted for its pure and flavorful profile. It is recommended to serve this wine between 16ºC and 18ºC. For food pairing, it beautifully complements aged meats, grilled red meats, and game dishes like venison. While enjoyable young, "O Fugitivo Tinta Amarela" also possesses significant aging potential, developing further complexity over time.