Drink: Altivo Dão Red

The wines of Portugal remain among the Old World's greatest wine bargains - especially as the country known for port makes the case that it can produce excellent dry table wines, too.

This red blend by Altivo from the Dão is a prime example at a pretty price.

The Dão, a traditional winemaking region north of Lisbon that has risen in reputation over the last two decades, is considered the home of Touriga Nacional, the most prized grape for port, whose tiny clusters are deeply concentrated with dark fruit and take on a distinctively dusty, earthy backbone.

Blended with fruity Jaen and spicy Trincadeira grapes by Altivo (owned by Portuguese giant Vinihold), this wine has a modern, fruit-forward appeal, with flavors of dark berries framed by aromas of cocoa and lightly oaked, medium-bodied tannins that are smooth, yet firm.

Perfect for light meats, pasta, or spice at a casual midweek meal.

- Craig LaBan
Altivo Dão Red 2012, $11.99 in Pennsylvania (code 33263) wine stores.