At a glance

Producer

Casa Santos Lima

Region

Lisboa, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional, Castelão, Syrah, Alicante Bouschet (blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$8-$12 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe red and black fruit (plum, cherry, blackberry), hints of spice and light oak, soft tannins, fresh finish.

Evolution: Will develop slightly more earthy and dried fruit notes with 1-2 years aging, but fruit will fade after 2025.

At peak: Vivid, juicy fruit now and next 1-2 years; not built for long-term development.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate plus (lively, maintains freshness)

Tannins

Moderate, soft

Alcohol

Medium (13-13.5%)

Aging potential

Best consumed young; limited cellaring potential (max 4-5 years post-vintage)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2024

Optimal window

2021 to 2025

Current status

Fresh and youthful; drinking well now

Current condition

Very good condition; primary fruit notes dominant

Casa Santos Lima Bonavita Tinto is an affordable, fruit-driven blend intended for early consumption. Its structure and price category mean it should be enjoyed while vibrant—within 4-5 years of the 2020 vintage. Beyond that, fruit fades and tertiary development is unlikely to add complexity.

Food pairing

Grilled sausages, roasted chicken, pork chops, pizza, Mediterranean dishes with roasted vegetables, or mild to medium cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Casa Santos Lima uses integrated crop management, energy-efficient winery practices, and recycles waste water. They prioritize sustainable vineyard management but are not overtly certified organic or biodynamic for this cuvée.

Casa Santos Lima is recognized for sustainable vineyard management and modern, energy-conscious winery operations. They employ eco-friendly, water-saving techniques and limit chemical intervention, but do not possess organic/biodynamic certifications. Packaging is typical for the market. While not a leader in carbon-neutral initiatives, their scale and modern infrastructure mean practices are above average for the price tier.