Rubrica Red 2022, Luis Duarte, Alentejo

With a beautiful violet colour of good concentration, it reveals a full aromatic profile on the nose, complemented by more complex notes of spices and mint. On the palate, it is rich in concentrated black fruit flavours and has a firm structure, with present tannins and a refreshing acidity. A long-medium finish of notable elegance.

Luís Duarte is part of a pioneering generation of Portuguese winemakers, and has been acclaimed several times as one of the best winemakers in Portugal, winning the title of “Winemaker of the Year” in 1997, 2007 and 2014.

In 2007, he officially founded Luis Duarte Vinhos, based in Monte do Carrapatelo in Reguengos de Monsaraz. The winery has vineyards in soils of low fertility and great geological variety, where all viticulture is governed by sustainable practices adapted to each grape variety and plot.

He believes in respecting the terroir, the art of the blend, the tradition of Alentejo, and sustainability.

Grapes were hand-harvested and rigorously selected at the winery. Each variety was vinified separately in stainless steel lagares at controlled temperatures (25–28°C). Malolactic fermentation was followed by ageing for 12 months in new French oak barrels, conferring complexity and elegance to the wine.