Valoroso Reserva 2016

Valoroso means ‘valiant’ – a worthy name for this rich, barrel-aged Reserva.

It’s a tribute to the Comendadora title (aka ‘knighthood’) given to fourth-generation winemaking star Leonor Freitas by the Portuguese government for service to the wine industry. Her family’s estate was founded nearly 100 years ago and still produces some of the country’s finest wines. Look no further than this hugely acclaimed example.

Valoroso Reserva blends native Touriga Nacional (star grape of Portugal’s famed fortified wine, Port) plus international Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah – each one BIG on luscious, black-fruit flavor. The wine takes on even more complexity, thanks to 12 months’ aging in French and American oak barrels. It sports a long list of gold medals for previous vintages, including a 92-point, gold medal score from France’s prestigious Gilbert & Gaillard.

What’s awaiting you in the glass? A deep, dark purple color to start. Valoroso Reserva brims with rich aromas of ripe black cherry and cassis plus hints of clove, smoky vanilla, and tobacco leaf. On the palate, it’s full of succulent dark cherry, plum, and cedar with a silky, warming mouthfeel.

Given the HUGE consumer demand for dry Portuguese reds, this limited-release Reserva likely won’t be available for long. We recommend you grab a case while you still can.