Red wine | Dão, Portugal
The Dão Messias is a classic red wine from the Dão region of Portugal. Dão, cradled by granite mountains, stands as one of Portugal's oldest and most esteemed wine regions, renowned for its unique terroir and elegant wines. The Messias winery, a stalwart of Portuguese winemaking since 1926, expertly captures the region's essence in this bottling. This is mainly due to the three grapes Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Alfrocheiro Preto.
This wine shows a captivating ruby color in the glass, inviting you to explore its aromatic profile. The nose is greeted with ripe red fruit aromas with hints of spice and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it unfolds with a smooth texture and flavors of plum, cherry, and a touch of forest floor.
Messias Dão is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its balanced structure and medium body make it an excellent partner for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and hearty stews. Consider serving it with roast beef, grilled lamb chops, or a traditional Portuguese cozido (a meat and vegetable stew). For vegetarian options, pair it with mushroom risotto, eggplant parmesan, or lentil soup. It also works well with cheese, especially semi-hard varieties like Serra da Estrela or Manchego.
Serve at 16°C to fully appreciate its aromas and flavors. It is a great everyday wine to enjoy with food and friends. The wine requires approximately 15 minutes of rest time after being opened to allow it to reach its full potential. The perfect glass to enjoy this wine is a Burgundy glass with a wide bowl so that it can enhance the wine's aromas.
The granite soils of the Dão region contribute to the wine's distinct minerality, while the mountainous terrain ensures a cooler climate, resulting in balanced acidity and freshness. This unique terroir, combined with Messias's dedication to quality, creates a wine that truly represents the essence of the Dão.
If you are looking for an approachable and delicious red wine that showcases the best of Portugal, this is a great option.