Quinta do Pinto Estate Collection Tinto 2016 – A Premium Red from Portugal’s Lisboa Region
The Best of Alenquer in a Bottle
Crafted in the heart of Portugal’s Lisboa wine region, Quinta do Pinto Estate Collection Tinto 2016 showcases a thoughtful blend of native and international grape varieties. It reflects the tradition, terroir, and innovation of the Quinta do Pinto estate, a family-run winery dedicated to sustainable viticulture and authentic expression.
This red wine exemplifies the richness of the Alenquer subregion, known for producing complex, structured reds with aging potential.
Alenquer’s Unique Terroir
Situated north of Lisbon, Alenquer offers limestone-rich soils and an Atlantic-influenced climate. Warm days and cool nights give grapes the ability to ripen fully while preserving acidity. This natural balance creates wines that are both powerful and fresh.
The estate relies on minimal-intervention methods. Grapes are hand-picked and fermented with native yeasts in cement vats, preserving the vineyard’s distinct identity. Wines are matured in second- and third-use French oak barrels to soften tannins while maintaining fruit integrity.
Grape Composition – Thoughtful and Harmonious
The blend includes five carefully selected varieties:
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Touriga Nacional: Adds depth, floral aromas, and structure.
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Aragonez (Tempranillo): Brings ripe red fruit and soft texture.
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Tinta Miúda (Graciano): Offers freshness, spice, and lift.
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Syrah: Contributes dark fruit and peppery character.
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Cabernet Sauvignon: Provides structure and aging potential.
Each variety plays a role in delivering a balanced and expressive red. The blend consists of 30% Syrah, 27% Aragonez, 20% Touriga Nacional, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Tinta Miúda. The final wine shows no single grape dominating, but rather a seamless integration.
Tasting Notes – Complex, Refined, and Balanced
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Appearance: Deep garnet with violet highlights, showing clarity and saturation.
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Aroma: Notes of blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum with secondary aromas of vanilla, fig, and mocha. Hints of spice, earth, and dried herbs emerge with aeration.
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Palate: Full-bodied with ripe black cherry and cassis leading the way. Mid-palate reveals espresso, cocoa, and a subtle minerality. Balanced acidity lifts the wine, while polished tannins provide structure. The finish is long and clean.
Decanting the wine for 30–45 minutes is recommended to unlock its full aromatic potential.
Ideal Food Pairings
This red wine pairs wonderfully with bold, flavorful dishes. Serve at 16–18°C in a large glass to allow aromas and structure to unfold.
Recommended pairings include:
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Grilled lamb with rosemary
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Barbecue beef ribs
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Braised wild game such as venison or boar
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Hearty stews with root vegetables
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Aged cheeses like Manchego or Portuguese sheep’s milk cheese
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Roasted mushrooms, eggplant, or smoky vegetarian dishes
Its versatility and depth make it suitable for both rustic meals and elegant dinners.
Aged to Perfection
Now with nearly a decade of bottle age, this vintage has evolved beautifully. The tannins have softened, and the complexity has deepened. While ready to drink now, this wine can continue to develop for several more years under proper cellaring.
Quinta do Pinto Estate Collection Tinto 2016 is ideal for collectors or anyone looking to explore the richness of mature Portuguese reds.
Other Portuguese Reds to Explore
If this wine appeals to you, try these comparable bottles from other key regions of Portugal:
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Herdade do Rocim Reserva Red – A bold Alentejo blend with structure and finesse
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Conceito Bastardo – A rare and aromatic Douro wine with unique character
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Real Lavrador Tinto – A value-driven option that offers ripe fruit and everyday charm
Each wine offers a different lens on Portugal’s winemaking diversity.
Final Thoughts
Elegant, structured, and expressive, stands out as a benchmark red wine from the Lisboa region. Its careful blend of grapes, terroir-driven style, and graceful aging make it a must-try for wine enthusiasts looking for both quality and authenticity.
Whether paired with food or enjoyed on its own, it delivers sophistication and depth in every glass.
