Marcío Lopes, Anel Reserva 2020

Márcio Lopes studied as an engineer, but cut his winemaking teeth working for two years with Vinho Verde master Anselmo Mendes in Melgaço. He then traveled to Australia where he made wine in Rutherglen and Tasmania, returning to Portugal in 2010 to start his own projects in the Douro. His wines reflect his trademark style: channelling the vibe and essence of the region into balanced, hugely drinkable wines. Anel Reserva 2020 is a blend of Portugal's biggest red grapes: Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca. Big, brooding, juicy flavours of black plum, blueberry and cassis play on the nose which leads to a full-bore palate, rich tannins and flavours of oak, chocolate and smoke. A perfect wine for lovers of big reds; one which was born to go with a ribeye steak.