# Tinta Carvalha (2018)

- **Producer:** Fitapreta Vinhos
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tinta Carvalha
- **Region:** Alentejo, Portugal
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, red cherry, black plum

## About this wine

The Tinta Carvalha 2018 from Fitapreta Vinhos is a red wine from the D.O. Vinho Regional Alentejano in Portugal, made from 100% Tinta Carvalha grapes. This wine is distinguished as the only monovarietal Tinta Carvalha in Portugal, showcasing an ancient grape variety. Fitapreta Vinhos, founded in 2004, is based in Évora and has a strong connection to heritage, operating from a 14th-century manor house and emphasizing sustainable and organic farming. The vineyards are situated on granitic soils at an altitude of over 250 meters. The wine is produced in limited quantities, with 4,999 numbered bottles released.

## Interesting facts

- Tinta Carvalha is an ancient grape, a half-sister to Castelão and Moreto.
- This is the only 100% Tinta Carvalha wine made in Portugal.
- Vines for this wine were planted in 1970.
- Fitapreta Vinhos is located in a 14th-century manor house.

## Food pairing

The wine's good acidity and depth provide a structure that can cut through richer, fattier dishes. Its inherent freshness complements proteins and can balance the richness of sauces, while its character stands up well to complex flavors.

## Wine making process

The Tinta Carvalha 2018 underwent a winemaking process that included selection on a sorting table. Fermentation was spontaneous, with 30% of the grapes fermented whole bunch and 70% destemmed. Maceration on skins lasted for 40 days. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in neutral barrels. The production volume for this vintage was 4,999 numbered bottles.