At a glance

Producer

Luis Pato

Region

Bairrada, Portugal

Grape variety

Baga

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Red berry fruits, earthy and forest floor notes, with hints of spice and leather emerging

Evolution: Will develop more tertiary complexity including tobacco, truffle and dried herb nuances

At peak: Balanced fruit and tertiary notes with supple tannins and lively acidity for freshness

Structure

Acidity

High acidity typical of Baga from Bairrada

Tannins

Medium to full, firm and structured

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5% ABV

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage due to grape variety and producer style

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2042

Optimal window

2022 to 2045

Current status

Approaching optimal maturity, suitable for drinking now with some years ahead

Current condition

The wine is currently showing good structure with evolving complexity and freshness.

This wine benefits from the natural high acidity and firm tannins of the Baga grape, along with Luis Pato's traditional winemaking, allowing extended aging to soften tannins and develop complexity. The 2017 vintage quality in Bairrada supports a drinking window extending 15+ years with peak drinking starting 5 years from now.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats, hearty stews, wild mushrooms, aged cheeses, and traditional Portuguese dishes like roasted suckling pig

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow tannins to soften and aromas to open

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Luis Pato is known for low-intervention winemaking and sustainable farming including limiting chemical inputs and employing natural yeast fermentations. Water conservation and energy efficiency are increasingly adopted.

Luis Pato's operation shows a commitment to sustainable viticulture principles, with minimal chemical treatments and traditional methods supporting soil health. While not fully certified organic or biodynamic as of 2017, their practices reduce environmental impact. The carbon footprint is moderate given export markets, but relatively low compared to New World imports.