Altano Douro Tinto 2022

For a great example of a good-value Douro red, start here. A blend of classic local grapes - Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinta Barroca - it's all about juicy, fruit-forward charm, packed with black cherries, plums, and blackberries. A short spell in oak adds a touch of structure and a subtle hint of spice in the background. Smooth, easy-drinking, and rounded with soft tannins, it's the kind of red that goes down effortlessly. A textbook affordable Douro red from a producer that knows exactly what they're doing.

Soft and spicy, it's a dream with grilled lamb, hearty stews, or a proper Sunday roast. Juicy fruit, gentle spice, and smooth tannins make it easy to pair - and even easier to drink.

The name behind the Altano label needs little introduction - Symington Family Estates, the Douro's powerhouse Port producer, launched it in 1999 as their first venture into table wines. They were among the first to champion Douro reds on the world stage, helping to establish the region as more than just a home for Port. The approach is simple: traditional grape varieties from their own vineyards, crafted into modern, approachable styles. Over the years, they've played a key role in making Douro wines a familiar sight on shelves, cementing the region's reputation for quality table wines.