Red Re-Alignment On The Douro

Firstly, tinto is the Portuguese word for red. As the production of fortified Port wines has slowed down somewhat, producers with vineyards along the Douro River are in a fortunate position. The indigenous red grape varieties, especially Touriga National, used for Port production, are ideal for making full bodied, dry red wines.

Real Companhia Velha is Portugal’s oldest wine company founded in 1756. Its Evel brand Tinto comes from their best Quintas (vineyards) located around the town of Pinhao, considered to be the premium center of grape growing in the upper Douro region.

Starting with a pronounced ruby red colour with violet tints, aromas of red berries, green tobacco, and vanilla from oak aging, it moves us on to a medium body with soft tannins and a long finish.

Red wine and a red wine sauce are a local favourite pairing with Portugal’s national fish, baked Bacalhau, or cod as we would know it.  

2019 Evel Tinto Douro LCBO #190964, $14.95