Marques De Borba 2017 75cl

In the cellar, the fully de-stemmed grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks, while a smaller portion is fermented in traditional marble lagares. That detail matters: lagares are a historic part of Portuguese winemaking, and their inclusion adds a subtle nod to regional tradition. The wine is then matured for six months in second- and third-year French and American small oak barrels, giving it roundness and spice without overwhelming the fruit.

Tasting Notes

Marquês de Borba 2017 shows excellent aromatic concentration with an intensely fruity profile. Expect aromas of berries, cassis and fruit preserves, followed by a palate supported by smooth tannins and a balanced interplay of fruit, acidity and tannin. It is generous, rounded and pleasantly persistent on the finish.

Food Pairing

This Alentejo red works especially well with red meats, roast beef, grilled meats and rich savoury dishes. Its ripe fruit and smooth tannins also make it a strong partner for barbecue spreads, slow-cooked lamb and hard cheeses. The wine’s structure means it can comfortably handle bold flavours without losing its fruit character. This pairing guidance aligns with retailer descriptions of the wine and the producer’s full-bodied style.

Accolades

The Marquês de Borba brand is one of João Portugal Ramos’ flagship ranges and is recognised by the producer as one of its most emblematic labels, with global presence as a symbol of the Alentejo region.

For the specific Marquês de Borba Red 2017 bottling, I did not find a clearly attributable major award or critic score from the producer or a high-confidence primary source during this check. So it is better not to claim one. The stronger published critic recognition I found was for the Marquês de Borba Reserva 2017, which received 92 points from Wine Enthusiast and 17.5/20 from Revista de Vinhos but that is a different wine and should not be used as an award for this standard 2017 red.

Why Buy Marquês de Borba 2017?

If you are looking for a dependable Portuguese red wine with generous fruit, oak-aged polish and real regional character, Marquês de Borba 2017 75cl is a smart choice. It offers the warmth and richness Alentejo is known for, while also carrying the heritage of one of Portugal’s best-known modern wine producers. It is the kind of bottle that works for gifting, dinners or simply upgrading your usual red wine pick.