Encosta da Quinta Humus Balburdia 2019

Balburdia is a red blend from Rodrigo Filipe at Encosta da Quinta, Quinta do Paço, in Alvorninha near Óbidos in the Lisboa wine region. The name means chaos in Portuguese, a nod to the wine's approach of blending different barrels and, in some iterations, multiple vintages. This 2019 is made from 40% Touriga Nacional, 30% Syrah, and 30% Tinta Barroca, grapes Rodrigo planted on the estate starting in 2002.

The vineyards sit on red clay and limestone slopes at 150–200 meters above sea level, roughly 10 minutes from the Atlantic coast. The maritime climate delivers cool temperatures, steady sea breezes, and high humidity, which keeps natural acidity high and extends the ripening season. Grapes are hand-harvested, and the estate has held organic certification since 2007.

In the cellar, Rodrigo works with minimum intervention: spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, no fining, no filtration, and no added sulfites. The result is a light-to-medium-bodied red with bright red and black fruit, earthy and herbaceous undertones, and firm but integrated tannins backed by lively Atlantic acidity.