Bastardo is typical grape from the Douro Valley, however also known in France as Trousseau. It is very well known in the Douro, not only for its constant presence in the Old Vines of the region, but for having a name which invoques something unwanted and controversial (The Bastard!). For us, Bastardo represents once more our passion for innovation and discovery, though this fabulously intense, elegante and fruitful red.
Bastardo, like Malvasia Preta, is planted at Quinta das Carvalhas with a south facing exposure. In comparission to other red grapes of the region, Bastardo is always the first to be picked as it is know for living a very short maturation cycle, and quite sensitive to rot when entering an overripening fase. We believe in this grape, not only for its good adaptability, but essencially for its strong varietal character with great expression on both nose and palate. The fermentation for this wine occurs in small stainless steel tanks with pelicular maceration, followed by an ageing period of 12 months in used french oak barriques.
A very bright red, that impresses at first for its brick red colour, quirte unusual for a Douro Red. On the nose it reveals a very intense and complex fruity character with notes of wild berries, pomegranate and gooseberries. This wine primes for its intensity and elegance, showing nobility and finesse, with round firm tanins and a long, lingering finish. Offers immense adaptability for food pairing.
