The Alves de Sousa Abandonado Tinto 2021 is one of those wines that tells a story — a story of struggle, resilience, and respect for the harsh nature of the Douro. It all begins in a vineyard over 80 years old, forgotten by time, marked by failures and neglect. Located on an exposed slope, where schist outcrops and not even the most stubborn grass survives, this vineyard seemed lost. But time proved otherwise.

Despite several attempts at recovery, only the oldest vines withstood the extreme conditions. And it was in them that something special was revealed. In 2004, they decided to vinify it separately for the first time—the result was surprising. A wine with its own identity, which today is honored with the name that was naturally given to it: Abandonado (Abandoned).

The 2021 vintage maintains this irreverent personality. Deep ruby ​​color, complex and fresh aromas with balsamic notes, tar, licorice and blackberries. On the palate, it shows elegance, minerality and a rare purity of fruit. You can feel the Douro in its purest form — the schist, the forest, the altitude.

It aged for 18 months in new French oak and rested for a further 12 months in the bottle, gaining structure and sophistication. It is perfect to accompany rich dishes such as game, roasts, smoked meats or aged cheeses.

An excellent red wine that honors one of Portugal's most emblematic vineyards.