Portugal does not now, and really never has, produced many “monovarietal” wines – those made from just one grape type that is listed on the bottle. It is a country of blended wines, and why not when they have 250 or mare indigenous varietals there? Vintners are able to craft some of the most interesting, layered, and balanced wines using anywhere from two to seven complementary varieties, and the price-value is always quite remarkable.

Labutes Tinto, from a highly-respected cooperative winery in the Setubal district not far to the east of Lisbon, is a blend of Castelao, Alicante Bouschet, and Aragonez. Deep ruby color and nose of dark red berries and a little spice is followed by a soft, medium-bodied wine with almost surprising richness and robust red fruit flavors. Red-sauced pasta and pizza are great matches, as well as cured meats.