Reguengos Reserva

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10 December 2025

Brought back from a recent holiday in Portugal, this red comes from Reguengos, the largest sub-region within Alentejo. It’s a blend of Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez and Trincadeira. Many vineyards in Alentejo rely solely on natural rainfall, which forces the vines to send roots deep into the earth to access water, taking in nutrients and minerals that lie far below the surface.

This particular wine has been matured in a mix of vat and French oak for twelve months. It’s produced by CARMIM, a cooperative that began in 1971 with just 60 farmers and now boasts around 700 members. CARMIM has grown into the largest winery in Alentejo and ranks among the biggest across Portugal.

In the glass, this 2023 vintage wine has a deep ruby-purple colour. The aroma is rich with blackberry and plum alongside a soft touch of caramel. On tasting, it offers generous ripe dark fruit, a warm thread of spice and chocolate hints, supported by a structure that’s soft and satisfying.

The wine is dry, medium to full in body and the tannins are present but very gentle. It finishes with a smooth hint of caramel again. If allowed to breathe significantly, a day or more, it opens up with more layers, bringing out vanilla in both scent and flavour and an even rounder, fuller feel.

At €3.99 on offer from its usual €5.99 price, this bottle was a brilliant find. It’s not currently available in the UK, but well worth looking for if you’re travelling to Portugal. A fantastic wine that is remarkable value for money.

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