At a glance

Producer

Herdade do Mouchão

Region

Alentejo, Portugal

Grape variety

Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Dark berry and plum fruits with spice, earthy notes, and a hint of smoke

Evolution: Will develop more leather, tobacco, and forest floor complexity over time

At peak: Complex layered flavors with silky tannins and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing good freshness

Tannins

Firm, well-structured

Alcohol

14-14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2049

Optimal window

2022 to 2052

Current status

Approaching early maturity with excellent structure

Current condition

Fruit-forward with tannins beginning to integrate; vibrant acidity

The wine’s firm tannin structure and balanced acidity support long aging. The 2017 vintage in Alentejo was very good, providing ripe fruit and concentrated flavors allowing maturation between 10 and 15 years. Around 2025-2030, the wine is expected to show its best integration of fruit and tertiary notes.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with rich meat dishes such as roast lamb, braised beef, game meats, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Herdade do Mouchão employs integrated pest management, careful canopy management, and minimal irrigation to conserve water. They utilize solar energy for some operations and have implemented waste reduction protocols.

Though not certified organic or biodynamic, the producer focuses on sustainable farming and resource conservation. Renewable energy use, water management, and reduced chemical inputs contribute positively. Importation increases carbon footprint for distant markets but local EU sales have a relatively low impact.