This wine is a regular in Liquor Control Board of Ontario’s Vintages releases. “Trina Bolotas” in its name is Portuguese for grazing “acorn cracker pigs” which include acorns as part of their diet. Its distinctive taste makes for delicious roast pork even more sublime when matched with the right wine!
A blend of Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional and Aragonez.
No oak here. Aged six months in stainless steel.
Aroma: It’s a tie between black raspberry and blackberry with a bit of mischievous root beer (a mark of acidity), cigar and dark chocolate in the mix.
Palate: The dark chocolate strangely travels a narrow vibrant streak down the gullet surrounded by black cherry and blueberry. Short and juicy finish with firm acidity. The acidity makes the wine better for consumption with food than for sipping.
Personality: I am straightforward, simple and utilitarian.
Food Match: Pasta sauces made with fresh field tomatoes with more defined acidity would suit the wine as well as pork made in or coated with a tomato sauce.
Cellarbility: Consume in 2026. The winery recommends consumption within 24 hours of opening.
Price: $19 CDN.
RKS Wines of Portugal Rating: 86/100. Wine Align 88.
(Trinca Bolotas Tinto 2023, DOC Alentejo, Sogrape, Portugal, 750 mL, 13.5%)
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