Casal Sta. Maria in the Lisbon region is known mostly for its varietal wines, but this winery to the northwest of Lisbon, close to the town of Colares, also makes some decent blends, amongst them this beautifully illustrated rosé.
3000 Rosas is made from a blend of Touriga Nacional, Pinot Noir and Syrah and is a rosé of quite some complexity. Half of the wine is fermented in stainless steel whilst the other half ferments in both used and new French oak barrels, followed by ageing on the fine lees for six months.
The oak is well integrated, almost undetectable on the nose, with floral and peachy notes coming to the front. In the mouth, the wine is harmonious with a slight creaminess and nicely balanced acidity.
This is by no means a mainstream rosé and it represents good value for money at €14.95, comparing favourably to premium rosés from Portugal and elsewhere that cost considerably more.
