Being a Rebel has never been my thing. Dreaming about being a Rebel on the other hand, well that’s a completely different story. I’d like to think that in another life I was some bad-ass strong willed leader of a well reasoned and morally sound resistance, kicking butt and taking names. I’d be like Billy from Stranger Things, a female Tyler Durden, or a Katniss Everden. In this life, however, I’m just a cork dork, a wine drinker who appreciates those that have the moxie to be a rebel. Cortes de Cima is one rebel of winery.
Cortes de Cima located in Alentejo Portugal (which as many of you know is one of my all-time favorite places), is run by a Danish-American couple. They had just finished sailing the world (as you do), when they decided to buy a bit of land in an area primarily known for growing grapes for white wine. It was here that they rebelliously planted red wine, and Syrah no less, which wasn’t technically legal. They called the Syrah Incognito and campaigned the government to allow growing Syrah to be legal. After many years, they won. The Syrah is anything but obscure. It is complex and down right delicious! Dark in color and full of intense flavors or blackberry and plum, and perfect tannins that allow for an amazing finish. It is unique and flavorful.
My friend Eilise and I visited Cores De Cima on a warm April day. We were the only ones at the winery who weren’t workers. We toured the grounds and the facilities. I was amazed that they store the Amphora and Amphora wines outside! It gets over 100°F/38°C in the summer. We learned of the family’s story. I loved that one of the owners was originally from California. We tried 8 different wines, one of them being the Syrah, and the other my first Amphora wine. It was perfect. I will be returning!
Loved hearing about this wine experience! I thought only the Roman’s made amphora wine – who knew. Portugal is on our list to visit one day and must visit this winery.