Quinta do Ribeiro Santo Pinha Tinto 22

The Dão wine region is often described as the country's hidden vinous gem in north-central Portugal. Surrounded by mountains that protect from extreme weather, Dão enjoys a temperate climate with warm, dry summers and cooler winters. Unlike the Douro region, famous for beefy, structured dry reds and the world-celebrated Port, the Dão produces wines known for elegance, freshness, and balance, showcasing nuanced complexity rather than sheer power.

Though geographically close, the Dão and Douro differ considerably in their winemaking identities. Douro's steep, terraced vineyards help produce intensely concentrated wines, while Dão, with its gently rolling hills and granite-based soils, crafts refined reds that emphasize finesse over muscle. I've always appreciated this distinct dichotomy and how each region's unique geography and climate shape its wines.

Portugal's wine culture rolls with a different vinous rhythm than most of Europe. By choosing tradition over trend, Portugal focuses on indigenous grapes instead of planting more widely recognized international varietals. This choice truly sets Portugal apart from its neighbors in the EU, cementing Portugal's firmly-rooted viticultural history.

As with most of Portugal, the Dão region is firmly committed to the country's indigenous grape varieties, notably Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Jaen (Mencía), and Alfrocheiro. Touriga Nacional, the star of Portugal's vinous show, originated in Dão and thrives here. It provides vibrant color, vivid structure, and vaunted complexity to the region's red blends. Its vinous cousin, Tinta Roriz, contributes rich fruit and spice notes, Jaen adds aromatic freshness, and Alfrocheiro provides finesse and elegance.

Carlos Lucas, the creative mind behind Magnum Vinos, is regarded as one of Portugal's most dynamic winemakers. His vinous footprint is easily recognized across multiple Portuguese wine regions, notably in the Dão, Douro, and Alentejo. Across these regions, Carlos is deeply committed to presenting and preserving the local terroir and tradition while embracing innovation and sustainability.

The Ribeiro Santo winery in Dão showcases Carlos' dedication to quality and regional integrity. Ribeiro Santo's vineyards benefit from ideal positioning and meticulous vineyard management, focusing on sustainable and environmentally sound farming practices. The Riveiro Santo Pinha Dão Tinto illustrates Lucas's vision —an approachable red that beautifully translates the regional typicity of the Indigenous grapes in the Dão.

In your glass, Pinha Tinto opens with inviting aromas of plum, dark cherry, wild berries, and cherry, along with subtle notes of herbs and spice. The medium-bodied palate features a nice balance of red and black fruits framed by nuanced touches of oak spice, tobacco, and a faint whisper of campfire. Smooth tannins and a balanced lift ride through the clean, fresh finish make this wine enjoyable both on the porch or patio and at the table.

Traditional Portuguese dishes such as grilled pork tenderloin, hearty bean stews, and roasted lamb will pair wonderfully with this versatile red. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, consider pairing it with grilled octopus, a garlic-spiked mushroom risotto, or North African lamb tagine.