Quinta do Piloto is located in the Palmela sub-region of the Peninsula de Setúbal. The Cardoso family is one of the ancient Palmela families with great traditions in making traditional Palmela wines. Filipe Cardoso is a 4th generation winemaker, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather Humberto, who created the estate in the early 20th century with lands inherited by his wife. This unusual cuvée highlights alfrocheiro, a variety said to have made its home primarily in the Dao region north of Lisbon, though here we have one from just south of the city on the Setúbal Peninsula. Its closest genetic relative is trousseau (aka bastardo), which was brought from the mountains of eastern France hundreds of years ago. This wine is somewhat reminiscent of its alpine cousin in its dark forest evocations and surprising palate levity. It pairs well with lentils, casseroles, roasted vegetables, and barbecued red meats. Try it chilled as well!!