Casa Ferreirinha Esteva Douro Tinto 2021

Winery Background and History

Casa Ferreirinha, founded in the 19th century in Portugal’s Douro Valley, takes its name from D. Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, a trailblazing port producer. Acquired by Sogrape in 1987, the estate blends cutting-edge techniques and traditional winemaking. Besides legendary Barca-Velha, Casa Ferreirinha produces approachable blends like Esteva to showcase Douro’s terroir-driven quality at a great value  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Esteva is crafted under the leadership of renowned winemaker Luís Sottomayor, supported by Sogrape’s Douro team. They select grapes from recommended Douro estates and co-ordinate fermentation and blending to reveal the region’s intensity and elegance  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes for Esteva come from terraced vineyards across the Douro region planted in schist soils. The hot, dry summers and cool nights yield ripe, expressive fruit with balanced natural acidity  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented separately in stainless steel vats, followed by malolactic conversion. The blend is briefly aged in stainless steel or neutral wood to retain fruit purity and freshness ().

Tasting notes

Bright ruby red with lively aromas of strawberry, cherry, cedar, tobacco, violet, and rock-rose. The palate is rich yet balanced, featuring red-berry flavors, smooth tannins, a mineral-tinged finish, and subtle chocolate or balsamic nuance  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, lamb, hearty pasta, charcuterie, venison, and aged cheeses. Its balanced acidity and textured fruit harmonize with flavorful, savory dishes ().

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve slightly chilled at 16–18 °C in a medium-bodied red or tulip-shaped glass. Gentle swirling enhances aromas. For more complexity, decant briefly before serving.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed within 2 to 5 years. When cellared at 12–14 °C in a stable, dark environment, it may develop richer, tertiary flavors while maintaining core fruit structure.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Approximately 40% Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), 35% Touriga Franca, 15% Tinta Barroca, and 10% Touriga Nacional  .

ABV

13.0% ()

Scores

• James Suckling: 91