XXVI Talhas - Tinto do Tareco

The “Do Tareco” series pays tribute to the small-scale winegrowers of Vila Alva. For thousands of years, they have preserved this tradition by making wine in their homes using artisanal methods and small clay vessels known locally as “talhas.” These wines are produced in limited quantities and offer a pure expression of what could be called the “new” generation of Talha wines.

Winery: XXVI Talhas
Winemaker: Ricardo Santos
Origin: Alentejo, Portugal
Appellation: DOC Alentejo
Style & Type: Vinho de Talha Red (a traditional amphora-aged red wine from Alentejo)
Grapes: Trincadeira, Aragonez, Tinta Grossa
Body: Medium
Alcohol: 12%
Vintage: 2023
Best enjoyed: 2024–2030
Volume: 750 ml
Closure: Cork
Annual production: 6,300 bottles

About the Vineyard
Location: Vila Alva
Soil: Schist and granite, low fertility
Planted: Between 1980 and 1990
Farming: Organic (uncertified)

Vinification
Fully destemmed and lightly crushed. Fermented in clay *talhas* (amphorae) for two months with native yeasts, in contact with skins and lees, without temperature control.

Harvest period: Mid-August to mid-September
Harvest method: Hand-picked
Malolactic fermentation: Yes
Fining: None
Filtration: Naturally filtered through stems and grape solids remaining inside the *talha*

Notable Rating
16.5 points – Julia Harding MW for Jancis Robinson, 2023 vintage

“Aragonez, Trincadeira and Tinta Grossa field blend.Mid crimson. Scented with non-sweet dark-red fruit. Delicate leafy notes without being stemmy. Mouth-watering from both tannins and acid. Finest of tannins, light-bodied and yet really persistent. Likely to be GV, like the white. Bright, juicy and refined. Easy yet intense pleasure.” (JH)