Description
Although Tinta Cão is a red Portuguese wine grape often used to make port, this version is a dry red table wine. It is an ancient varietal, originally grown in the Douro region of Portugal. The grape prefers warm, dry weather with cool evenings and has found a home in the St. Jorge Vineyard in Lodi, California, an area subjected to the cooling delta breezes. Tinta Cão means “red dog,” not hair of the dog. It hints at an acidic bite that the wine can proffer when young. This version does offer an initial tartness on the palate, mellowing into soft tannins, dates, and plums. It finishes dry with a touch of fruit. Pair this wine with smoked meat, game, aged cheese, grilled heirloom tomatoes, savory tofu dishes, and sautéed asparagus in soy sauce.
