We were introduced to the wines of the Tejo region while on a wine tour with Steve Thurlow in 2019, and this is an excellent example of the value to be found there. Supple, with no discernible oak influence, exuberant fruit but not jammy or over the top, herbal/savoury notes... eminently quaffable and very food-friendly, with a modest but clean finish. For 15 bucks, what's not to like?
Roughly equal parts Touriga Nacional, Merlot, and Syrah, this has a medium intensity nose of black fruit, dark berry, and peppery spice that also echo on the flavour profile. It's medium+ bodied with supple, ripe tannins and balanced acidity. Peppery finish with very good length. Tasted Nov/2019.
A mixed of bright ripe fruit, some pleasant herbal note, and a bit of tang on the finish. Some supple tannin gives just the right amount of support without being obtrusive. Nothing earth moving here, just a solid everyday red and an agreeable price. Tasted Feb 2020.