2005 Dom Rafael Tinto, Herdade Do Mouchâo, Alentejo

Although nominally a second wine, Dom Rafael is of very high quality, more approachable than its more tannic sibling (Mouchao) but not without concentration and real complexity. The majority of the grapes, all of which are indigenous and relatively unknown, are trodden by foot in old granitic lagares. They are then assembled and matured for over a year in large wooden vats before release. Both the diligence of the winemaking and the individuality of the grape varieties are evidenced in the 2005, a terrific and concentrated wine, with supple tannins, red and black fruits and a satisfying long and spicy finish.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)