From: Évora, Alentejo, Portugal
Varietal: Arinto, Roupeiro, Antão Vaz
Taste: In the glass, it is a clear, pale, straw-yellow with green reflections. The nose is vibrant and aromatic, showcasing citrus and tropical fruit notes such as lemon, lime, and pineapple, layered with hints of green apple and subtle floral nuances like orange blossom and a faint granitic minerality. The wine is crisp and well-balanced on the palate, with a lively acidity that complements its fruit-forward character. Flavors of zesty citrus and juicy orchard fruits dominate, with a touch of stone fruit like peach on the mid-palate. The finish is clean, with a refreshing mineral edge and a lingering hint of lime zest.
Pairing: Taking in the Iberian Peninsula, we give you some ideas based on this region for food pairings, but it's easy to see the types of dishes in all kinds of cuisines that will work with this wine. Its crisp acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an ideal match for bacalhau à Brás, the classic Portuguese dish of salted cod mixed with onions, potatoes, and eggs. For a lighter option, pair it with gambas al ajillo, Spanish-style garlic shrimp, where the wine’s citrusy notes enhance the richness of the olive oil and garlic. Pulpo a la gallega, tender octopus with smoked paprika and olive oil, harmonizes beautifully with the wine’s mineral freshness. The acidity also cuts olive oil's and garlic's richness the richness of empanadas gallegas, flaky pastries filled with tuna or seafood. A chilled glass complements the delicate flavors of Ensalada de Naranja, a refreshing orange and olive salad from Andalusia. Lastly, its zesty profile pairs wonderfully with caldeirada de peixe, a Portuguese fish stew, highlighting the wine’s ability to enhance seafood dishes with its lively character.
Citrus Salad With Fennel and Olives
By David Tanis
About: Adega Cartuxa, located in the Alentejo region of Portugal near the historic city of Évora, is one of the country's most prestigious wineries. Its origins trace back to the 16th century when Jesuit monks established the Cartuxa Monastery near Évora. The Jesuits played a crucial role in cultivating the land and establishing viticulture traditions that have endured for centuries. Following the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1759, the property changed hands, ultimately becoming part of the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation in the 20th century.
The winery is owned and managed by the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, a philanthropic organization founded by Vasco Maria Eugénio de Almeida in 1963. The foundation is dedicated to cultural, educational, and social initiatives in the Alentejo region. The profits from Adega Cartuxa contribute significantly to funding these efforts, making the winery a direct line for regional development.
