PLEASE NOTE: This is a recurring auction. The seal number(s) you see on the photos might differ from the one(s) on your bottle(s). 2017 Tapada do Chaves Reserva Red 3 x 0.75L DESCRIPTION Located in Frangoneiro, on the outskirts of Portalegre, in the region of Upper Alentejo, one finds Tapada do Chaves, an estate that has given rise to wines of renowned quality for nearly 100 years. It covers 60 hectares in total, of which 32 hectares are vineyards, broken down into 23 planted with red grape varieties and nine with white grape varieties. Tapada do Chaves is located in a region heavily influenced by the nearby mountain range (Serra de São Mamede) and surrounding forestry and agriculture which endow it with a specific microclimate. These conditions play a crucial role in the quality and character of the wines produced. Winemaking properties in the Alentejo over a century old are few and far between. Therefore, Tapada do Chaves is a one-off in the region. Its particular and singular qualities, thanks to the nearby mountains, make it truly unique. Implanted on a granite massif at considerable height, the grapes mature slowly and fully, which is reflected in the wines’ extremely pure aromas and a singular freshness in both the reds and whites. The history of this label dates back to the early 20th century when Mr Chaves planted the first vineyards on his small property in Frangoneiro, which gave rise to a passionate dedication to the land. The Tapada do Chaves estate includes two of the oldest working vineyards in the Alentejo, with records dating back to 1901 (old red vineyards) and 1903 (old white vineyards). Brimming with superb potential, elegant and full-bodied, the tapada do chaves wines are specifically geared towards lovers of rare and truly extraordinary wines. WINEMAKER: Pedro Baptista. AWARDS/RECOMMENDATIONS 17.5 Points, Vinho Grandes Escolhas (2015 Vintage) 17.5 Points, Revista de Vinhos (2015 Vintage) 16.5 Points, Jancis Robinson (2016 Vintage) 93 Points, CellarTracker (2015 Vintage) 93 Points, Revista Adega (2013 Vintage) Gold Medal, Mundus Vini Gold Medal, Challenge International du Vin WINE VARIETIES: Aragonez, Trincadeira & Alicante Bouschet. VINIFICATION Hand-picked grapes selected from vineyards located at an average altitude of 350 to 400 meters. Hand-sorting of the grapes inside the winery and full destemming before a 5 day cold soak maceration. Wild fermentation in stainless steel tanks, with an additional 30 days of maceration. Spontaneous natural malolactic fermentation in 225, 300 and 525 liter oak barrels. Ageing for 12 months in both Portuguese and French oak barrels, then in the bottle for 24 months. TASTING NOTES Garnet color with a medium concentration. Very fresh, with great aromatic complexity, red berry fruits, bush, rockrose, wax, earth and leather. In the mouth it is extremely elegant, with volume, rusticity and very expressive ripe fruit. Robust, firm tannins and good acidity, very classic profile. SERVING This wine pairs nicely with strongly flavored fish or poultry. We also recommend it with soft cheese. It should be served at a temperature of 18ºC.