This month we bring to you one our popular wines which has just been awarded the prestigious ‘Portuguese Red Wine’ trophy at this year’s International Wine Challenge. It is a truly modern example of Douro light wine showcasing the fresh, vibrant fruit and fine, balanced structure that can be achieved with careful grape selection from some of the finest vineyards in the region and can be bought at an affordable price.
The Douro Region
Douro is a Portuguese wine region centred on the Douro River in the Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro region. It is sometimes referred to as the Alto Douro (upper Douro), as it is located some distance upstream from Porto, sheltered by mountain ranges from coastal influence. The region has Portugal's highest wine classification as a Denominação de Origem Controlada (DOC).
While the region is associated primarily with Port wine production, the Douro produces just as much still wine as it does Port. The style of wines produced in the Douro range from light, Bordeaux-style claret to rich Burgundian-style wines aged in new oak.
About Casa Ferreirinha
Casa Ferreirinha is a famous Portuguese wine stable based near Pinhao in the stunning Douro valley. Its most famous wine is the rare and iconic “Barca Velha”, which has only had 18 vintages since 1952 and is reportedly Jose Mourinho’s favourite wine – with prices reaching in excess of £450 per bottle. It also produces many quality white and red wines at affordable prices.
About Papa Figos Tinto
The grapes that make up Papa Figos Tinto are 35% Tinta Roriz , 25% Tinta Barroca, 25% Touriga Franca, 15% Touriga Nacional). The wine gets its name from the golden oriole (‘papa figos’ in Portuguese) which is one of the rarest birds in the Douro region. An attractive, brightly-coloured migratory bird, its uniqueness and rarity make it the perfect inspiration for this lovely wine. The grapes are selected from the Douro region from vines which ideally face north and are of a high altitude of about 400m.
Casa Ferreirinha Papa Figos Red 2017 is a deep ruby colour and has an intense aroma with prominent notes of heather, flowers, fresh red fruit and balsamic hints of resin and cedar. Smooth on the palate, this wine has polished tannins of great quality, further notes of red fruit and touches of spiciness. Its finish is extremely elegant. It is great on its own or can be accompanied by cheeses or red meat. Drink now – 2023.