CHÃO DOS EREMITAS TINTA CARVALHO ANTONIO MAÇANITA

António Maçanita, a rock star in the Portuguese wine scene, is deeply rooted in his homeland, the Alentejo, yet has embarked on various projects across the country, from the Douro to the Azores and even Porto Santo. The latter two have seen significant growth since the inception of Maçanita's ventures, becoming regions with some of the most expensive grapes in the country. This is one of the many factors demonstrating that Maçanita not only produces exceptional wines but also plays an active role in revitalizing the island regions.

The site known since ancient times as Chão dos Eremitas was centuries ago a refuge for the hermit monks of the Order of Saint Paul, valued for their vinicultural contributions to the region, to the extent of being granted papal exemption from taxes in 1397. Archaeological remains, including the discovery of a Phoenician wine amphora, testify to wine production at this site since the 8th century BC, marking about 3,000 years of winemaking history.

In the Alentejo, the Tinta Carvalho grape represents a unique celebration of viticulture, emerging as the only wine in Portugal made 100% from the Tinta Carvalha variety. This varietal, a forgotten treasure of the Alentejo, sibling to Castelão and Moreto and offspring of the cross between Sarigo and Dozelinho Branco, is a testament to the region's rich vinicultural heritage.

The palate is overtaken by a rare tension and elegance, unveiling a depth and complexity that challenge the traditional perception of Alentejo wines.