Bacalhôa's (the new name for Alianca) flagship Baga wine - complex and characterful, expressing the terroir of the Bairrada region.

Rich red fruit aromas, with star anise, clove and a touch of spicy oak, lead on to a complex palate. Ripe bramble fruit and plum flavours are backed by well-structured tannins and a touch of dark chocolate - all lifted by balancing acidity.

One of Portugal's largest and most progressive producers with 600 hectares spread across estates in five regions from Douro in the north to Alentejo in the south. Winemaker Francisco Antunes oversees what must be one of the most diverse ranges in Europe, from the 3rd largest Portuguese rose brand (Casal Mendes) to some of the country's most impressive premium reds from estates in Douro, Dao, Bairrada and Alentejo. Arguably, Francisco's greatest achievements lie between these extremes, a range of mid-priced wines from native varieties, full of character, quite distinctly Portuguese, but at the same time approachable and with fresh, modern fruit.

Aliança has been part of Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal since 2007 and all wines are now being brought under the Bacalhôa name.

Grapes are sourced from Vinha da Dôna in Bairrada, with clay-limestone soils and a westerly exposure, suited to the cultivation of the Baga grape. The grapes undergo a cold and long pre-fermentation maceration to extract colour, aroma and flavour. Then following vinifictaion the wine spends 14 months ageing in new 300 litre French and Russian oak barrels.

A great match for the local speciality - suckling pig; but works well with many Chinese dishes too such as pork belly, ribs and duck.