There aren’t many notable wines at $11.95 CDN these days in Canada although in Portugal at Pingo Doce or Jumbo hypermarchés there are many at that price.
We try a Portuguese red Guarda Rios from the Alentejano region that is slowly crowding off Douro wines from the shelves in Ontario, based on price to value considerations. A blend of Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Aragonez.
Aroma: A healthy infusion of blackberry rules the roost. Secondary notes of blueberry and black cherry. Some hints of creaminess.
Palate: Moderate broad-based tannins. Firm. Tight. Spicy. A tad peppery on the finish. More about structure than fruit expressive.
Personality: If you visit Portugal, you may find us particularly formal in an old-world way. It is politeness not aloofness. Get to know us, don’t wear Bermuda shorts and a MAGA hat and we are terribly friendly and generous. I would describe myself as an old-world wine where fruit is polite and discrete and not gushing with fruit all over the place like several countries/regions, due to my politeness, I will not enumerate.
Music Match: Smokey Robinson (latest album “What the World Needs Now”).
Cellarbility: By the book I would say drink by 2026-year end but at this price experiment. Try one in 2027, and 2008 and see what you get. Wine can be a total bore if you always play by the book.
Price: $11.95 CDN.
RKS 2025 Wine Rating: 89/100. Jamessuckling.com 90.
(Guarda Rios Tinto 2022, VR Alentejano, Monte da Ravasqueria, Arraiolos, Portugal, 750 mL, 13.5%).
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