At a glance

Producer

Casa Santos Lima

Region

Lisbon, Portugal

Grape variety

Blend (typically Castelão, Tinta Roriz, Syrah, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

€6-€10 per bottle (retail, 750ml, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Ripe red and black berries (cherry, plum, blackberry), subtle spice, floral hints, light toast & vanilla from oak, soft tannins, fresh acidity

Evolution: Over 2-3 years the wine will integrate, tannins further soften, fruit shifts towards jammy/dried tones, underlying earthy and savory notes emerge

At peak: At peak (2024-2025) expect optimal harmony: vivid fruit, supporting structure, well-melded spice and oak nuances, smooth texture

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-high, contributing to freshness and aging ability for a few years

Tannins

Medium, moderately supple, approachable and softening further with 1-2 years

Alcohol

Balanced (12.5%-13.5% typical), seamlessly integrated; not dominant

Aging potential

Up to 5 years from vintage (2026 max for optimal quality)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2038

Optimal window

2026 to 2041

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Fresh, youthful, vibrant with good balance; primary fruit well defined

Casa Santos Lima Clássico is crafted for youthful vibrancy over complexity; the 2024-2025 period captures the balance between bright fruit, resolved tannins, and supporting oak. After this, the wine's moderate structure will be insufficient to maintain freshness, leading to diminished fruit, greater earthiness, and declining vivacity.

Food pairing

Pairs well with Portuguese grilled meats (piri-piri chicken, pork ribs), tapas, charcuterie, roasted vegetables, tomato-based pasta, pizza, mild cheeses. As it evolves, complement richer stews (feijoada), aged cheese, or smoky grilled dishes.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Sustainable viticulture, reduced chemical input, soil and water conservation, energy-efficient production

Casa Santos Lima makes measurable efforts toward sustainability, though not top-tier certified. Focus is on practical, scalable improvements benefiting wine quality and regional environment.