Carlos Alonso, 'Piano' Colheita Tinto, 2024, Douro (DOC)

'One-Liner'
A juicy introduction to the Douro – ripe plum, cassis and strawberry with floral lift, soft tannins and plenty of easy-going charm.

Tasting Note
Deep ruby in the glass, with an expressive nose of ripe strawberry, cassis and dark plum lifted by a delicate touch of orange blossom. The palate is generous and rounded, with juicy red and black fruit carried by soft, polished tannins and nicely judged acidity. There is plenty of flavour here without excessive weight, the native Douro varieties bringing both richness and freshness. Subtle floral and savoury notes appear through the middle, adding interest without distracting from the fruit. Smooth, balanced and persistent on the finish, with plum and dark berries lingering behind.

Country: Portugal
Region: Douro DOC
Sub-Region: n/a
Grape(s): 50% Touriga Franca, 20% Touriga Nacional, 15% Tinta Barroca, 15% Tinta Roriz
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Piano comes from Carlos Alonso Douro Wine Company, an independent family producer founded in 1985 in Alijó, right in the heart of the Douro. The 2024 brings together four of the region’s classic red grapes from vineyards at Castedo do Douro on the right bank of the river, where the parcels were planted separately in the early 1990s. Touriga Franca forms the backbone, bringing dark fruit and perfume, while Touriga Nacional adds structure, Tinta Barroca contributes generosity and Tinta Roriz brings freshness and spice. Each variety is fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel before blending, allowing their different personalities to remain clear in the finished wine. It is a deliberately approachable expression of the Douro – rooted in traditional local grapes, but made for uncomplicated, thoroughly enjoyable drinking.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Paprika chicken with roast peppers and crispy potatoes
- Vegetarian: Creamy tarragon mushrooms on toast
- Vegan: Braised red cabbage with lentils and roasted onions