Luis Seabra Xisto Ilimitado Tinto

Luis Seabra made his name as winemaker for Niepoort, before leaving to set up his own project in 2013. Seabra’s idea was to make uncompromising wines: the sort he wanted to make, without thinking about what the market wants. He wanted to create authentic expressions of these regions. He sources grapes from top vineyards in the Douro and Vinho Verde. Winemaking is low intervention, with natural yeast ferments. All his reds are now 100% whole bunch, and he aims for low extraction, though leaves the wine on the skins for as long as 30 days, extracting very gently. These are wines of balance and finesse, and are worth seeking out. You can see the Niepoort influence here.

A vibrant blend of native Portuguese grape varieties - Rufete (lesser spotted), Touriga Franca, and Malvasia Preta. Bright garnet. High toned red and blue fruit aromas, tinged with wet stone and violets. On the palate, lush, but with bright acidity to balance the red cherry and pomegranate fruit. White pepper, slate and herbal aromas overlay the core of fruit on a juicy, fresh finish.

Tasting note:

Bright berry fruit backed up with a heavy dose of minerality and black pepper notes.