Fonte Real Alicante Bouschet Reserva 2017

In recent years, Portugal’s previously little-known, boutique estates have modernized—and their world-class wines are starting to catch the attention of critics.

Here’s a great example…

Crafted by one of Portugal’s elite winemakers, Jaime Quendera, this bold red showcases the country’s native Alicante Bouschet grape. “Fonte Real (‘royal fountain’ in Portuguese) is a water fountain created by the King to accommodate his court while traveling. Located near one of our oldest and best Alicante vineyards, it became the inspiration for his wine,” says Jaime.

He gave this rich, powerful red the royal treatment, too—a full 12 months of barrel aging. It’s big, smooth and brimming with ripe blackberry and plum, framed by gentle spice from that generous oak aging. Once again, Jaime has caught the eye of critics: Fonte Real Reserva has won a gold medal from leading wine guide Gilbert & Gaillard.

This rich, rounded and mouthfilling red will make a fantastic match for equally hearty meat dishes. If you’re a barbecue fan, everything from saucy pork ribs to juicy sausages will work deliciously. Yankee pot roast or braised venison loin would also be great. Vegetarian? Try Fonte Real with a black bean (or portobello mushroom) burger.