At a glance

Producer

Quinta da Lapa

Region

Tejo, Portugal

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional, Syrah, Alicante Bouschet (blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

USD $15-22

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruit, black plum, violets, mild oak, hint of earthy spice, smooth structure.

Evolution: Primary fruit will soften, more spice and tertiary notes (leather, earth) will emerge with time.

At peak: Best expression expected between 2024-2026, with a graceful integration of fruit, acid, and subtle oak.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium plus, useful for aging

Tannins

Medium, ripe, moderately grippy at release

Alcohol

13.5%-14.5%, typical for region and style

Aging potential

Short-to-mid-term (3-6 years from vintage)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2039

Optimal window

2026 to 2042

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Youthful with primary fruit, moderate tannin integration, attractive freshness.

This wine's blend, structure, and regional style favor moderate cellaring; it shows well early but will peak 4-6 years post-vintage when complexity and texture are most harmonious.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted pork, Iberian sausage, mushroom risotto, hard cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that can benefit from aeration to soften and enhance its flavors, especially given its blend of varietals.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Producer follows regional best practices for water and energy management; some data suggest partial cover cropping and limited intervention, but no official claim on eco-packaging, renewable energy, or advanced conservation.

Quinta da Lapa aligns with baseline sustainable practices expected in Portugal (integrated pest management, moderate intervention), but lacks external environmental certification or prominent eco-initiatives. Some improvements in water and energy efficiency are reported but not industry-leading. The region’s emphasis on dry farming helps reduce water use. Standard glass bottles mean the packaging footprint is typical. No indication of organic or biodynamic conversion as of 2020.