Quinta do Infantado Douro Tinto '17

The Douro region of Portugal is among the world’s most famous wine areas, with a long history of Port production. Yet the growth of the production of dry wine, a revolution of sorts, is still a relatively recent change. Like many winemaking countries, Portugal has regions, such as Douro, where industrialized and overly commercialized wines are produced. That is why it is important to support the conscientious small growers who are committed to quality first.
 
João Roseira is the third-generation owner and winemaker of Quinta do Infantado, one of the Douro Valley’s most important wineries, with about 46 hectares of vines. In addition to making his own excellent wines, he is a champion for all the small growers throughout the country. His historical winery is called Quinta do Infantado, and it was founded in 1816, in the Cima Corgo subregion of the Douro, which is considered the finest zone for both Port and dry wines. It was founded by the Portuguese crown heir D. Pedro IV, hence the name of the estate: Infante is Portuguese for “prince.” The Roseira family has owned it since the end of the nineteenth century.

This wine is made of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, and old field-blend red varieties from two sustainably farmed sites (Serra Douro and Serra de Cotas. The fruit is partly destemmed, then fermented with native yeasts in lagar. The wine is aged 8 months in tank and 28 months in 300-liter French oak barrels.

This is always such a great Douro value. With bright red and dark fruits on the nose, medium weight, finishing with subtle earthy and spice notes. Pair this alongside the classic dish of duck rice or even a simple hamburger on the grill.