2007 Dona Ermelinda (Palmela DOC)

[Brian C.]

This is a red that is 100% Castelao, priced in the $10-12 range. Palmela DOC is located in the Setubal region. I drank it with some pasta tonight, as I had read of someone's positive experience of pairing it with pizza when I looked for other opinions on this wine. I wouldn't be surprised if Castelao is found to be related to some of the lesser known Italian vareitals I have tried. The tannins are not quite as harsh as those found in a number of those Italian wines, but they do let you know they are present. The fruit reminds me of that found in many of those Italian wines, too. I just don't know how to describe the fruit I taste, though. This wine is making me crave cheese now, also.