Santo Isidro was founded in 1958, after the Portuguese government granted vinegrowers land in the small village of Pegoes. The winery covers a total of 900 hectares owned by 140 vinegrowers producing 70% red and 30% white wines. The winery and vineyards are located in Terras do Sado, the coastal region of the Setubal peninsula. This area benefits from the mineral-rich sandy soils where both international and native grape varieties can be grown.
Santo Isidro de Pegoes is one of the most forward thinking co-operatives and their chief winemaker, Jaime Quendera, is a leading wine entrepreneur in Portugal, offering advice to over 20 other wineries throughout the country. The winery boasts the most up to date equipment; a computerised, temperature controlled modern winery, with 90 stainless steel vats, pneumatic presses, 1,600 oak barrels and modern bottling lines. They produce a wide range of wines that offer excellent value for money.
Grapes: 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Touriga Nacional, 25% Trincaderia, 15% Syrah.
Viticulture and Vinification: The vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean and Continental climate. The vines are grown in sandy soils and harvested in September. Fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Followed by skin maceration . The wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels followed by 4 months in bottle prior to release.
Tasting note: Oaky, rich and spicy with chocolate tones. A lovely combination of ripe simple fruit style with concentration and complexity and a lingering finish.
Evolution: Will age well for up to 10 years from vintage
Serve: At 18°C with game, grilled meats and cheese
