Casa Ermelinda Freitas Sandstone Castelao Shiraz

Winemaker Casa Ermelinda Freitas on the winery

“We are Casa Ermelinda Freitas, a family-owned winery in Fernando Pó on Portugal’s Setúbal Peninsula. Our history began in 1920, and today we draw on the knowledge and experience of several generations of winemakers. The region is known for its warm, sunny climate and the distinctive grape varieties that thrive here. We combine local traditions with modern techniques to create wines that express their origins. We pay close attention to grape quality and careful winemaking, aiming to produce Portuguese wines with plenty of character that are also inviting to enjoy.”

And on Setúbal, Portugal

“Our Sandstone comes from the Setúbal Peninsula, south of Lisbon. We make this red wine from 90% Castelão, a traditional Portuguese grape variety, complemented by 10% Shiraz. The grapes ferment in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with extended skin maceration to develop colour, flavour and structure. The wine then spends four months ageing in French oak barrels, adding roundness and subtle notes of vanilla and spice. In the glass, you’ll discover ripe red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, with a gentle spicy note. The wine is full and concentrated, with soft yet firm tannins and a long finish.”