Coutada Velha

About Coutada Velha

Coutada Velha is an Alentejo name principally associated with approachable, modern Portuguese red and white wines. The range includes Coutada Velha Tinto, Signature Tinto and Signature Branco. Its name refers to an old enclosed hunting ground, a meaning that suits the rural identity of the Alentejo. For precise blends and appellation details, the label of each vintage remains the best reference, as these may vary within a wine range.

The wines come from Alentejano, the large wine region of southern and south-eastern Portugal. The climate is generally hot and dry, with abundant sunshine and a distinctly continental pattern: very warm summer days are often followed by cooler nights. These conditions encourage ripe flavours and generous texture, although site selection, picking date and grape variety remain crucial to freshness. Alentejo has varied soils, including granite, schist, clay and calcareous sites, and is important for both regional IGP wines and DOC Alentejo wines.

Coutada Velha’s reds place characterful Portuguese grapes alongside international varieties. Aragonez, Portugal’s name for Tempranillo, can bring red-fruit character and structure; Trincadeira often contributes spice, floral notes and lift. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah/Shiraz add blackcurrant, dark fruit, pepper and tannic frame. The regular Tinto is generally suited to an easy, immediate drinking style, while Signature Tinto can show a more concentrated and structured profile.

The white wines reflect the fresh yet ripe expression possible in Alentejo. Antão Vaz commonly gives body and stone-fruit flavours, Arinto de Bucelas brings lively acidity and citrus, and Alvarinho can contribute aromatic clarity and tension. Signature Branco is consequently a natural partner for fish, shellfish and dishes with a creamy or gently spiced element. Overall, Coutada Velha offers a clear introduction to Alentejo: ripe fruit, balanced savoury spice and wines that are particularly comfortable at the table.

• From Alentejano in southern Portugal
• Tinto, Signature Tinto and Signature Branco
• Portuguese and international varieties combined
• Hot, dry climate with abundant sunshine
• Blends may vary by vintage