Les-a-Les Trás-os-Montes Vinhas Velhas

Les-a-Lès Trás-os-Montes Vinhas Velhas is crafted from more than 15 native grape varieties—both red and white—sourced from vines over a century old in northeastern Portugal’s rugged Trás-os-Montes region. Grapes such as Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Bastardo, Cornifesto, Marufo, Borrado das Moscas, and Códega are harvested together without distinction by color, foot-trod in open vats after a short cold maceration, and then aged for 14 months in large, used French oak barrels. This traditional approach preserves the authenticity of the vineyard while bringing depth and refinement to the final wine.

The result is a red of remarkable complexity and freshness. Aromas of wild herbs, rockrose, damp earth, mushrooms, and moss mingle with notes of red and black berries, evoking the forested landscapes of its origin. On the palate it is full-bodied yet finely balanced, showing volume and vitality with layered fruit and savory detail. Firm but polished tannins provide structure without overshadowing the wine’s freshness, leading to a long, persistent finish that reflects both the strength of the old vines and the elegance of careful aging.

This bottling captures the distinctive character of Trás-os-Montes, a region defined by granite soils and dramatic altitudes, and reflects the mission of Les-a-Lès founders Jorge Rosa Santos and Rui Lopes to revive nearly forgotten grape varieties and regional traditions through thoughtful, site-driven winemaking.