Symington Family Estates releases first rosé

Symington Family Estates has launched Altano Organic Rosé 2021, the group’s first pink Douro DOC wine.

The first wine in the Altano range, a red, came out in 1999. Since then, a white, organic red, and reserve red and white have been added, and now a rosé expression. This is the family’s fourth organic Douro DOC wine, joining the aforementioned Altano Organic Red, as well as the Quinta do Ataíde Red and Quinta do Ataíde Vinha do Arco Red.

A blend of Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão from the 2021 harvest, the grapes were picked slightly earlier than usual to achieve the balance between ripeness and freshness. On the nose, there are aromas of jasmine and lychee, with hints of rhubarb,  gooseberry, and an underlying wet stones character.

While it is suggested that the wine can be enjoyed on its own as a summer aperitif, suggested food pairings include chicken, grilled fish and sushi.

Symington Family Estates CEO Rupert Symington, who is responsible for the family’s still wines, commented: “Since we launched the Altano range, it has developed a reputation for delivering consistent quality, whilst contributing to a healthier environment. Following an ambitious programme of extending our organically certified vineyards in the Vilariça Valley, we challenged ourselves in 2021 to produce a fresh and balanced rosé wine, made exclusively from these organically farmed grapes. We are thrilled with this first Altano Rosé and believe it will have great appeal amongst those who enjoy elegant rosés and want to buy wine that actively protects our ecosystems.”

Altano Organic Rosé is available for £15 (per 75cl) in the UK at Harvey Nichols and Seven Cellars.

Symington Family Estates recently won a Gold medal at the drinks business‘ Design and Packaging Masters for its striking Pequeno Dilema label.