Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492 – The Essence of Lisbon’s Heritage Wine
Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492 is an elegant Portuguese red wine from the Lisbon wine region. This celebrated 1492 wine blends tradition with modern winemaking, delivering a rich and full-bodied wine experience in every sip. The name 1492 honors the estate’s long history – Quinta do Gradil dates back to a royal document in the year 1492, marking one of the oldest wine references in Lisbon’s terroir.
Tasting Notes of Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492
Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492 offers a deep violaceous color and an inviting aromatic profile. On the nose, it reveals aromas of red cherries and plums, layered with floral hints, tobacco, and earthy undertones. This elegant wine showcases the finesse of its grape blend: the Touriga Nacional grape contributes floral notes and refined elegance, while Tannat provides structure, body, and depth. The result is a harmonious balance of power and grace – a full-bodied wine with smooth tannins and vibrant acidity. On the palate, expect ripe dark fruit flavors complemented by subtle oak influences (a portion of the wine is aged in French oak barrels for added complexity). The finish is long and complex, with lingering notes of spice and minerality, highlighting the wine’s refined character. In short, this 1492 wine is robust yet polished, making it an elegant wine suitable for both special occasions and refined everyday dinners.
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Aromatic Intensity: Described as a “wine of great aromatic intensity”, it immediately captivates with its rich bouquet of fruit and subtle spices.
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Flavor & Texture: A full-bodied Portuguese red wine, distinguished by a silky mouthfeel and firm but integrated tannins. The Touriga Nacional smooths out the bold tannic nature of Tannat, yielding a balanced and versatile wine with both elegance and strength.
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Finish: Ends with a long, complex finish, where hints of ripe plum, cacao, and earthy tobacco linger pleasantly. The vibrant natural acidity (thanks to Lisbon’s Atlantic-influenced climate) keeps the wine lively through the finish.
Grape Blend and Winemaking Heritage
The character of Tinto 1492 is deeply tied to its unique grape blend and the winery’s heritage. It is a blend of Tannat and Touriga Nacional grapes – a marriage of a robust French-origin variety (Tannat) with one of Portugal’s finest native grapes (Touriga Nacional). Each contributes to the wine’s identity: Tannat lends bold structure and full-bodied intensity, while Touriga Nacional imparts elegance and aromatic complexity, taming Tannat’s rustic tannins. This careful combination results in an elegant wine that is both powerful and smooth, truly embodying the best of both grapes.
Winemaking at Quinta do Gradil respects tradition while embracing innovation. The vineyards lie in clay-rich soils on the wide slopes of the Montejunto mountain in Lisbon, benefiting from excellent sun exposure and cooling Atlantic breezes that give the wines a natural acidity. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel to preserve pure fruit flavors, and about 20–30% of the wine is gently aged in French oak barrels, adding subtle notes of spice and vanilla without overpowering the fruit. The result is a 1492 wine that reflects its terroir – ripe and robust from the sunny Lisbon climate, yet balanced by freshness and finesse from the Atlantic influence.
Notably, Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492 carries the weight of history in its name. The “1492” commemorates the estate’s first recorded mention over five centuries ago. This rich heritage is evident in the care and artistry poured into each bottle. In fact, the wine has earned critical acclaim, including 90 points and a “Best Buy” designation from Wine Enthusiast, and a Gold Medal at the 2021 London Wine Competition – affirmations of its quality and pedigree. Such honors underscore why this Lisbon wine region gem stands out among Portuguese red wine offerings.
Savoring an Elegant Lisbon Red Wine
Tinto 1492 is more than just a bottle; it’s a taste of Lisbon’s winemaking legacy captured in a modern, premium red. This full-bodied wine pairs wonderfully with hearty cuisine – think grilled steaks, lamb stews, or aged cheeses – allowing its depth and structure to shine alongside bold flavors. Yet, thanks to its balanced acidity and refined tannins, this elegant wine is equally enjoyable on its own, unraveling new nuances with each sip.
Experience the Quinta do Gradil Tinto 1492 and discover why it exemplifies the best of the Lisbon wine region. From its aromatic richness to its historical significance, every aspect of this 1492 wine tells a story of Portuguese heritage and winemaking excellence. Quinta do Gradil has crafted a standout red that appeals to both enthusiasts and collectors – a wine that truly lives up to its celebrated name. Enjoy this distinguished Portuguese red wine and immerse yourself in the legacy and flavor of one of Lisbon’s finest estates.
Explore other Lisbon region wines at Garrafeira da Ilha and discover more from Quinta do Gradil’s collection. This Tinto 1492 is a shining example of an elegant, full-bodied Portuguese red that delivers history, quality, and exceptional taste in each glass. Cheers to a timeless classic that brings Lisbon’s wine region heritage to your table!
