Luis is a great producer from Bairrada, in central coastal Portugal between
Porto and Lisbon.  Something of a maverick throughout his 35 years of winemaking
in the region. Luis Pato's flagship red comes from a selction of old
vineyards and therefore different soiltypes, with all vines over 40 years old
(and some much older). This includes a small part coming down from the top Pan
and Barrosa cuvees. Stainless steel vinification with a over a year aging in
used french barrels results in a fantastic red wine, so very typical of the
region and the baga grape variety.

His old vine Tinto is a very
interesting expression of the Baga grape, the most prevalent variety in Bairrada
and one which Luis has mastered in his own way.  Fermented with stalks and skins
and then aged in large 600-litre barrels for 18 months. 

Raspberry on the
nose with dark fruits and pine. Vanilla black olive and dark plum on the palate
developing into woody, chocolatey flavours with a lasting finish. An hour in a
decanter brings out a wonderful rock-rose perfume.