Quinta da Boavista — owned and operated by João Tavares de Pina — is located in Penalva do Castelo in the Dão, a region in north-central Portugal known for producing elegant, mineral-driven red wines. João organically farms 36 hectares of vine grown in deep granite, clay and schist soils and planted to Jaen (Mencía),Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão and rare Pinheira (Rufete). The vineyards sit at an altitude of 550 meters surrounded by forests of oak and eucalyptus; their distance from the Atlantic and the shelter of the nearby granite mountains allow for mild winters and moderate summers. Rarely are products used in the vineyard, only topical organic treatments when absolutely necessary. João says all he needs to make wine is grapes, water to clean his equipment and a touch of sulfur at bottling. He isn't following any natural wine trend; this is just how he and his father have always done it. João hopes to live up to the 19th century adage that Dão is the "Burgundy of the South.

The Terras de Tavares Tinto is a blend of 81% Touriga Nacional, 13% Jaen (Mencia), and 6% Rufete, all from organic estate vineyards, planted to old granitic soils. Following spontaneous fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in chestnut casks, with another six months in bottle before release. This red offers a beautiful nose of dark red berry and stone fruits with notes of spice and leather. On the palate, waves of black raspberry, plum and ripe cherry cascade across the tongue blending with hints of baking spice and balanced with soft, supple tannins. The finish is long, warm and pleasing. Enjoy with grilled or roasted meats.