Located at the foot of Serra D’Ossa, just 35km north of Évora, Herdade da Maroteira is a 152ha estate that has been owned by the same Anglo-Portuguese family for 5 generations, since the mid-19th century. At that time Robert Reynolds invested in the Alentejo cork oak forest to meet the needs of the Port wine industry in northern Portugal. For about 150 years, in addition to cork, the estate produced mainly cattle and some olives. In 2000, Philip Mollet, current owner and manager, revolutionised the estate’s strategy and planted vines. The chosen Syrah grape variety proved to be a huge success in the form of the world-acclaimed Cem Reis wine. Later, a charming selection of reds, whites and rosés resulted from planting Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez and Touriga Nacional vineyards in an open valley.
Winemaking
Mediterranean climate with hot days and cold nights. Infertile stale and granite soils. Highly selective night harvest in 20kg boxes. Atipical vinification for the Alentejo. Natural and spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. Cuvaison of over 20 days.
Tasting notes
Concentrated ruby colour. Intense nose of wild berries and spices. Medium body, with a mouth-feel, full of aroma and ripe tannins.
Food pairing
Enjoy with dishes of game or well-seasoned red meat.