Natus Vini, Intus Tinto

Wine Type: Red Wine

Grape(s): Trincadeira and Aragonez (Tempranillo)

Country: Portugal

Region: Alentejo

Organic: Yes

Vegan: No

ABV: 12.5%

Winemaker: Hamilton Reis

Winery: Natus Vini is a passion project built from scratch by former Cortes de Cima winemaker Hamilton Reis and his wife Susana, both originally from Porto. Having been winemaker for several other big names of the Alentejo, he has now built his new home (literally, the house where he and his family live) in the middle of his vineyards, with his winery in the basement. He is surrounded by his vines and now makes his own style of wine.

His ethos is minimalist, while utilising technical skill and experience of the region and grape varieties he's learnt over years working in the region. His vineyards are organically farmed, and all grapes manually harvested. He ferments most of his wines in talha or stainless steel, some with whole bunches and some whites with skins. It's all delicate and purposeful. Ageing is done in a mixture of talha, seasoned oak barrels of various sizes, and even concrete. As Hamilton puts it, it's a modern return to the past.

Winemaking: Through unique characteristics in its terroir, Vidigueira is synonymous with wine. With large temperature differences between day and night (diurnal range), the protection of Serra do Mendro promotes the maintenance of morning humidity in the vineyards. 

In old vineyards, Trincadeira and Aragonez grapes are harvested by hand. Low intervention winemaking begins with foot treading. The start of spontaneous fermentation takes it to the press and only the first press is sent to small stainless steel tanks. After decanting, they bottle an unfiltered, unstabilised wine.

Tasting Notes: This has vivid aromas of fresh red fruits, where cherry notes lead the way. On the palate, a light body paired with crisp acidity creates a delightful texture, complimented by supple, gentle tannins.