Wines Lisbon Stones & Bones - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Stones & Bones 2019 hails from the Lisboa region of Portugal, a dynamic area gaining a reputation for producing characterful and generous red wines. This wine is typically crafted from an assemblage of indigenous varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Syrah, and Alicante Bouschet, though blends can vary slightly by vintage. The 2019 bottling reveals a ruby red color and a vibrant aromatic profile, with notes of ripe black and red fruits—think blackberry, plum, and cherry—layered with hints of vanilla, spice, and subtle earthy undertones resulting from judicious oak aging. The palate is round, with supple tannins, balanced acidity, and a lingering, fruit-driven finish. The vinification for this style often includes cold maceration to extract aroma and color, followed by temperature-controlled fermentation and partial maturation in oak barrels, which brings complexity and depth without overpowering the expressive fruit.

The Lisboa region lies to the west of Portugal, along the influence-rich Atlantic coast. Its vineyards benefit from a temperate maritime climate marked by cooling ocean breezes, which help slow ripening and preserve acidity. Soils vary from limestone to clay and sand, offering diversity and driving the vibrancy in the wines. Historically, Lisboa has been an important area for Portuguese wine production, but only in recent decades have producers focused on quality and modern vineyard techniques, bringing new international attention to the region. The name “Stones & Bones” itself is a nod to the rocky soils and archaeological finds in the local vineyards.

For food pairings, Stones & Bones 2019 shines with hearty dishes. Its robust structure and generous fruit make it a fine match for grilled meats, charcuterie, or a slow-cooked lamb stew. Traditional Portuguese dishes such as “feijoada” (bean and pork stew) or spicy “piri-piri” roasted chicken pair wonderfully with its bold character, while its soft tannins also allow it to complement softer cheeses or mushroom risotto.

Serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C, to preserve the freshness and highlight the fruit. Decanting for about 30 minutes is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its layered profile. This 2019 vintage can be enjoyed now for its youthful vigor, or cellared for another 2-3 years if you prefer more evolved, tertiary notes.