Casa Ermelinda Freitas, Baía de Troia Castelão 2023

Casa Ermelinda Freitas Baía de Troia Castelão 2023 is a full-bodied Portuguese red from the sandy coastal soils of Setúbal, where the Castelão grape develops exceptional depth and concentration. Dark, generous and velvety, it combines ripe black fruit with cocoa, coffee and warm spice, offering impressive richness while remaining smooth and approachable. It is a characterful expression of one of Portugal’s most traditional red grape varieties.

Tasting Notes
The wine is deep ruby-red in the glass, with an almost black core. Its layered nose opens with ripe plum, black cherry and blackberry, followed by inviting notes of cocoa, coffee, warm spices and subtle toast. Gentle hints of oak and roasting add depth without overshadowing the fruit. On the palate, it is full-bodied and velvety, with a generous structure and ripe, polished tannins. Dark fruit and chocolate tones are complemented by spice and a delicate smokiness, leading to a long, warm finish. It is ready to enjoy now, and its concentration and supple tannins should allow it to develop further over the next few years when stored in suitable conditions.

Production
The Castelão grapes are sourced from the sandy, coastal soils of the Setúbal region, a terroir that helps produce wines with both ripeness and an inviting softness. The available information does not specify the harvesting method or detailed vinification process, although the finished wine shows clear signs of careful maturation, with restrained toasted and woody notes supporting the fruit rather than dominating it.

Food & Serving
Serve at around 16–18°C alongside grilled or roasted red meat, slow-cooked stews, sausages, or richly spiced Mediterranean dishes. It also works well with grilled lamb, hearty pasta and mature cheeses. Decanting is not essential, but 20–30 minutes in a decanter can help open the wine’s dark fruit, spice and cocoa aromas, particularly when serving it soon after opening.

Producer
Casa Ermelinda Freitas is a well-established producer in Portugal’s Setúbal region, with a strong reputation for showcasing the character of local grape varieties, particularly Castelão. The winery is closely associated with the region’s distinctive sandy terroirs and has helped bring expressive, accessible Setúbal wines to a wider audience. Its wines are recognised for combining regional identity with generous fruit and polished modern winemaking.

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