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The Douro is a star region of Portugal. Renowned for centuries for its port, it now has a proven track record for its table wines, both red and white. Made by the exceptional João Maria Ramos, this is an authentic red with bright fruit and intensity.
Tasting notes
Silky, elegant ripe fruit, rounded tannins and freshness
Aroma
Scents of strawberry and blackberry, showing some maturity
Allergy information
Contains sulphites
More information
The Douro is famous for port and now wines too. Due to incredibly steep vineyards and naturally low yields, making wine here is expensive. Socalco, however, is excellent value. It's made at a cellar founded by two famous wine figures – João Portugal Ramos, one of the country's most famous winemakers, instrumental in the quality revolution of its wines, and José Maria Soares Franco, winemaker of £200 per bottle Barca Velha, a top Douro red for 27 years. In 2007, they joined forces to start a new venture in the Upper Douro and the results have been impressive. Today, João's son, João Maria, has joined them as winemaker, and their wines continue to be terrific value. Made from classic port grapes, it has spicy dark fruit and freshness.