Luis Seabra Mono Alfrocheiro -  Dao, Portugal

Grape: 100% Alfrocheiro. Sustainably grown vines planted around 1987 tended in granitic soils with quartz. This is a vegan wine.

It is rare for a winemaker in Dão (let alone an outsider) to make a statement about Alfrocheiro, which is typically used just for blending. Under the thoughtful mastery of Seabra, Mono A allows both the natural charm and aromatics—backed up by the frontal tannin of granite terroir—to come through in a way that shows the promise of this little-known varietal. The vineyard is in the Dão region in the foothills of the Serra da Estrela Mountain Range, mainland Portugal’s highest point, and a heavily protected natural area known for its excellent stargazing. Dão’s cool climate is highly regarded for producing wines that are bright, lifted, and elegant. After experiencing a decline in the 1960s, this region was eclipsed by other regions with more international appeal; thanks to the work of vignerons like Seabra, this area is returning to its former glory.

Thanks to its aromatic profile and gentle tannins, this wine is excellent on its own, but works wonderfully with mountain fare like mushrooms, meat and vegetable stews, and even earthier game bird preparations.