Here is a nice Alicante Bouschet!

[Bob Parsons Alberta]

TN: `04 Encostas de Estremoz Alicante Bouschet, Alentejo.

$22 Cdn, 14% alc, gd natural cork, no sediment noted, did not decant. Opened for an hour or so, my first AB experience! Not a very well-known winery till now!

Color. Dark ruby, no sign of age on the rim. Looks very inviting.

Nose. Some oak, spice, pepper, some big black fruits here. No change overnight.

Palate. Initial entry thought was chewy, dry, blackberry, some cab here?? Hint of some sweetness, cocoa, good acidity, smooth tannins on the finish. Plum and trace of cherry, "reminds me of a malbec" from across the table. Might be a tad new world for some but this wine worked for me.
Not much evolvement overnight, maybe some old leather, more peppery but still fresh and clean. Think this might merit some more cellaring?

Food was pork scallopini, blueberry coulis and vegies.

[Andy Velebil]

It's a shame this grape doesn't get more attention. I've had some wonderful older (1990's) Ridge Alicante Bouschet ATP wines in the past few years that have held up very well. Reading your note I wouldn't be surprised if this held up for at least 10 years.