Esporão, Defesa Red 2021, 75cl

• Grapes : 50% Touriga Nacional and 50% Syrah
• Vineyards

From a combination of vineyards, with an average age of 12 years, planted on granitic and schist soils.

• Wine Making

Each variety is harvested separately, destemmed, crushed, and undergoes temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation (22-25°C) in stainless steel tanks.

• Vintage

The 2021 agricultural year was a rainy year. During the vegetative rest period (autumn /winter) precipitation values were higher than the average of the last 22 years, with temperatures remaining mild. At the beginning of the vegetative cycle in spring, practically all the soils had their water reserves completely re-established. The budburst occurred earlier, and the higher temperatures observed during the spring accelerated the vegetative development until flowering. In summer, milder temperatures contributed to a regular development of the vegetative cycle, allowing maturation to take place in a regular and balanced manner.

• Food Pairing: Grilled and Roasted Red Meats, Pizza/Pasta, Salads and Picnics, Casseroles/Stews and Mild Creamy Cheeses

Francesinha (a smoked meat sandwich), grilled red meat or hard cheese.