Terra d'Alter

Terra d'Alter, named for the high ground of the Alto Alentejo where its vines sit, was founded in 2004 by the Borges and Roquette families alongside Australian winemaker Peter Bright, one of the original "flying winemakers." Winemaker José Manuel Reis, known as Zé, now runs the cellar, drawing on ninety hectares of vines for wines that overdeliver on their price rather than announce themselves. Alicante Bouschet, the rare red-fleshed grape that colors everything it touches, and Alfrocheiro (bottled as "ALF") stand as single varietal wines. Expressão Tinto takes the opposite approach, blending Trincadeira, Aragonez, and Syrah into one of the most pairing-versatile reds on any menu. Uncomplicated, delicious, Terra d'Alter opens a clear window onto some of Portugal's least familiar varieties, never asking you to work for your pleasure.

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Producer:	Terra d'Alter
Country:	Portugal
Region:	Alentejo
Subregion:	Alto Alentejo
City of Origin:	Fronteira
Date Founded:	2004
Owner Name:	Roquette and Borges Family and Peter Bright
Vineyard Size:	90 HA
Total Annual Production:	900,000 bottles

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Property History:

Terras de Alter was founded in 2004 as a joint venture between Sociedade Agrícola das Antas and Sociedade Agrícola do Monte Barrão, family firms with centuries of agricultural history in Alto Alentejo, in cooperation with Peter Bright, world renowned oenologist.

Owner History:

Roquette and Borges families have been in the farming business in this area for years. In the late 19th century, grapes grown on the ridge of Boavista Vineyard produced a “strong” wine sold under the brand “Visconde de Alter”. The descendants of the 19th century vintners, Borges Family, decided to replant the vineyards,restarting the production of great wines As one of the world’s most experienced and well recognized wine makers, Peter Bright brings his talents to Terras de Alter as head winemaker and business partner. After studying oenology in his native Australia, Peter came to Portugal in 1981 to hone his craft. By 1993, he was known as one of Australia’s first 'flying winemakers’, travelling first through Europe and then branching out to other continents.