Cartuxa Colheita Tinto 2021

Region and Vineyards

Cartuxa Colheita Tinto 2021 hails from Évora in the heart of Alentejo, one of Portugal's most celebrated wine regions. Alentejo is known for its warm Mediterranean climate tempered by continental influences, providing the long, hot summers that allow indigenous red varieties to reach optimal ripeness. The vineyards are set on granitic soils, a hallmark of Évora, which contribute a mineral backbone and freshness that counterbalances the region's natural generosity.

The Eugénio de Almeida Foundation cultivates these vineyards with a focus on sustainability and respect for tradition. The combination of abundant sunshine and poor, well-drained soils encourages the vines to dig deep, resulting in concentrated fruit with layered complexity. It is this unique interaction between the Alentejo landscape and human dedication that defines Cartuxa's expressive reds.

Winemaking

The 2021 vintage is a careful blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet and other local grapes, harvested from estate-owned vineyards. Once the grapes reached full phenolic maturity, they were hand-harvested and brought to the winery for de-stemming, gentle crushing, and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats. This controlled environment preserved the purity of fruit while allowing for a slow and balanced extraction.

Following fermentation, the wine underwent extended maceration to build texture and depth. Maturation took place partly in vats and partly in barrels over a period of 12 months, followed by a further 18 months of bottle aging before release. This combination of wood and bottle élevage gives Cartuxa Colheita 2021 both structure and approachability, while maintaining the vibrant character of its fruit.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with youthful purple reflections, suggesting concentration and freshness.
• Aroma: Intense notes of ripe blackberries, plums, and cherries, layered with hints of wild herbs, cedar, and subtle spice from oak.
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied, with velvety tannins supporting flavors of dark fruits, cocoa, and earthy undertones. Balanced acidity lends freshness, while a long, savory finish lingers with a touch of minerality.

Did you know?

The name Cartuxa derives from the Cartuxa Monastery, founded in 1598 near Évora, where Carthusian monks lived in silence and contemplation. The Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, which created Cartuxa in 1986, channels its profits from wine production into cultural, educational, and social projects in the region, making every bottle a contribution to the community.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roast lamb with rosemary: The wine's bold structure and herbal nuances pair seamlessly with the rich flavors of lamb and aromatic herbs.
• Wild boar stew: Game dishes enhance the earthy depth and robust fruit profile of Alicante Bouschet.
• Mature sheep's cheese: The intensity of Alentejo cheeses complements the wine's concentrated fruit and supple tannins.
• Grilled beef with black pepper: The spice of the dish resonates with the subtle oak and dark fruit core of the wine.

History of Cartuxa

The history of Cartuxa is closely tied to the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation, founded by Vasco Maria Eugénio de Almeida. The foundation was created with a philanthropic mission to promote social, cultural, and educational development in the Alentejo region. Since taking ownership in 1963, the foundation has not only restored the estate but also ensured its role in producing some of Portugal’s finest wines.

Cartuxa gained international recognition when it revived the legendary Pêra-Manca wine label in 1990. This wine has become synonymous with excellence, especially the Pêra-Manca Tinto, often regarded as one of Portugal’s greatest wines. Historically, the Pêra-Manca wine was said to be on the ships that Pedro Álvares Cabral used when he discovered Brazil in 1500.

Region and Vineyards

Cartuxa’s vineyards are spread across 1,050 hectares of prime Alentejo terroir, with 650 hectares owned directly by the winery and 400 hectares leased long-term. The vineyards are situated in the Alentejo DOC – Évora, a region famous for its hot Mediterranean climate and granitic soils. These conditions are ideal for growing native Portuguese grape varieties like Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Antão Vaz. The combination of old vines and modern viticulture techniques allows Cartuxa to craft wines that reflect the full potential of the region.

Wine Range

Cartuxa offers a diverse range of wines, from their entry-level wines like Foral de Évora to their premium labels such as Cartuxa Colheita and the flagship Pêra-Manca. The winery produces both red and white wines, with an emphasis on indigenous grape varieties. The Pêra-Manca Tinto is particularly revered for its richness, complexity, and longevity, while the Pêra-Manca Branco showcases finesse and balance. The Cartuxa label, which includes both red and white wines, represents the heart of their production, known for their consistency and quality.

Did you know?

The Pêra-Manca wine was once aboard the ships of Pedro Álvares Cabral, the Portuguese explorer who discovered Brazil in 1500. This historical connection adds to the legendary status of Pêra-Manca today, making it one of the most sought-after wines in Portugal and among collectors worldwide.