Lobo e Falcão Reserva 2018

José Lobo de Vasconcelos’ regular Lobo e Falcão is one of our best-selling Portuguese reds. Naturally, when he offered to send his special Reserva release – the flagship red of his historic Quinta do Casal Branco estate – we eagerly accepted.

Named in honor of José’s surname and his family’s history as royal falconers, Lobo e Falcão is crafted with hand-selected parcels of Alicante Bouschet (prized for its rare red flesh, which imparts extra depth and color), Syrah, Touriga Nacional (star Port grape), and Cabernet Sauvignon from José’s low-yielding, old vines. After fermentation in lagares (open stone tanks traditionally used in Port production), the wine spent 12 months in fine French oak barrels.

The result is a complex, well-balanced and intensely flavored Reserva – with a history of major acclaim. (Last vintage, it scooped 90 points from Wine Enthusiast.) Look for perfumed floral aromas mingling with ripe dark fruit and toasty vanilla oak. Rich, forest-fruit flavors dominate the succulent, well balanced palate. Hints of mocha-spice grace the long, smooth finish. Try it with barbecued meats, tomato- and bean-based stews, and other hearty dishes.

The “Wolf and Falcon” may be an unlikely duo in nature, but here they’re proving what savvy wine lovers have known for years: Portugal really is a hot spot for huge flavors and huge value. Don’t miss out on this luxurious taste.