Portuguese Wines
At Carmello's and Little Portugal we stride to bring you the best of what Portugal has to offer. We currently carry over 50 red and white Portuguese wines from regions such as Alentejo, Borba, Dao, Douro, Estremadure, Obidos, Palmela, Terras Do Sado, and Vinho Verde.
Below you will find lots of valuable information about Portugal’s wine regions and grape varietals. Portugal is famous for having more than 200 indigenous grape varieties. At the very bottom you will find a list of all the Portuguese wines that we carry with detailed descriptions and ratings. All our wines are available at a discount to take home.
Portugal – The Regions And Grape Varieties
Alentejo #7
The undulating Alentejo plains south and east of Lisbon cover a third of mainland Portugal and most of the country south of the Tagus River . In complete contrast to the north, this is sparsely populated region where cereal farms stretch as far as the eye can see. Over the last 20 years the Alentejo region has emerged as an important wine-making area and more recently Cooperatives and single estates have worked hard to modernize both the vineyards and the wineries. The winemaking potential of the Alentejo is finally being realized with demand for vineyards far exceeding supply resulting in the highest prices per hectare in Portugal .
Grape varieties: The production of red wine, principally from Aragonez, Trincadeira, Moreta and Catelão Francês grapes, exceeds white, although some growers are realizing the potential of white varieties souch as Antão Vaz, Roupeiro and Perrum.
Beiras #4
Occupying the central part of Portugal , this vast land of forests is home to some of the most interesting wine in Portugal . The climate and landscape is varied; the local dishes too – from light grilled fish and seafood to heavy lamb stews. And there is a range of wines to suit every palate and dish. With its ever changing landscapes and charming towns, Beiras is where the DOCs of Bairrada and Dão are located.
Bairrada
Bairrada is an area of agricultural smallholdings. Cereals, beans and vines thrive in between clumps of eucalyptus on the heavy but fertile soils. There are a number of cooperatives in the region but an increasing number of independent producers are springing up.
Grape varieties: Bairrada is unusual in Portugal in that it is almost a one-grape region. Over 80% of the wines are red, made principally from the Baga vine. Baga is the native grape of the Bairrada region. With care it is possible to squeeze all of the juicy character into the bottle without bringing out its aggressive side. White grapes, mostly Maria Gomes and Bical are grown to produce traditional method sparkling wines.
Dåo
Locked in three sides by high granite mountains and sheltered from the Atlantic , it benefits from long warm summers, cool nights and abundant winter rainfall. The sandy soils are well drained and the vineyards are stocked with a wealth of indigenous grape varities.
Grape varities: Over two-thirds of Dão wines are red and made from up to nine different authorized grapes. Touriga Nacional must account for at least 20% of any one wine. The other grapes permitted to make up the remainder are Jaen , Tinta Pinheira, Alfrocheiro Preto and Tinta Roriz and the rather unfortunate name Bastardo.
Douro #3
Probably most famous as the source of the famous fortified wine port, although the Douro DOC is increasingly well known for the production of unfortified table wine.
The Douro Valley was demarcated in 1756 making it one of the oldest delimited wine regions in the world. The boundaries have since been modified but the irregular outline corresponds closely with an outcrop of pre-Cambrian schist. Hemmed in by granite, this schist runs either side of the river for nearly 100 km from the Spanish frontier to the west.
Table wines are not new to the Douro . Until the early part of he 18th century, most of the wine exported from the region was fermented dry and shipped without the addition of spirit. With the huge investment in both skills and equipment that are necessary to make table wine in the extreme Douro climate we now find an area which has established itself as one of Portugal ’s finest and most admired wine regions.
Grape varities: The grape varieties used in making Dao table wines are similar to those used to produce port. More than 90 different grapes being permitted of which some of the most popular varieties include Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo). Ribigato, Gouveio, and Viosinho are some of the white grape varieties used in the region.
Estremadura #6
Estremadura is a relatively narrow stip of hilly land lying between the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean about 60 miles long and 40 miles wide. This region is characterized by its gentle rolling hills where the color green predominates. Located north of Lisbon , it is known as the Vegetable Garden of Lisbon. It contains the DOC regions of Torres Vedras in the west. Arruda in the east and Alenquer in the centre. The climate dictates the styles of wine produced in these three areas, since the vineyards closest to the Atlantic are subject to wetter and more moderate conditions and thus produce lighter, less alcoholic wines, while the vines planted further inland give stronger and fruitier wines.
Grape varieties: For red wines Castelão Francês, Tinta Miuda, Trincadeira and for white Arinto, Vital and Fernão Pires.
Ribatejo #5
Agricultural heartland of Portugal on either side of the Tagus inland from the capital of Lisbon . Fertile alluvial soils yield ample supplies of fruit and vegetables for the urban population around the river estuary. The Ribatejo province in therefore on of the wealthiest parts of Portugal . Vines planted on the flood plain are naturally irrigated most winters by the swollen river so yields can be high here. Soils are poorer on the stretch alongside the left bank of the Tagus down to Alentejo. The percentage volume of alcohol of the wine produced in this region is high as a result of the grapes’ exposure to the sun, which reflects on the white sands where the vine grows.
Grape varieties: a number of varieties can be found in this region, not only indigenous but also international. Fernão Pires, Arinto and Talia are the favored white grapes while Castelão Francês, Alfrocheiro, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah produce a wide variety of red wines.
Terras do Sado #8
Sado is the name of the river which cuts through this vast plain, sandy region with its mild winters and very hot summers. The region is famous for its beautiful beaches and fishing villages, as well as natural parks, laid down around Sado and Tagus estuary and the Arrabida Mountain . This area is renowned for its Muscat and Castelão Francês grape varieties, producing very concentrated, fruity wines, recommended for drinking with food because of their strong tannis. However, some of the new wines from this area, recently introduced into the market, are in contrast soft, and perfect for drinking before and after meals. This region is also famous for its Moscatel fortified wines, an ideal complement to cakes and sweet desserts, as well as a digestive drink.
Palmela is the larger of the two distinct wine regions on the Sétubal peninsula. Low-yielding vineyards on the north-facing clay and limestone slopes have traditionally produced the best wines, with those on the fertile, sandy plain extending eastwards from the fortress town of Palmela have always been more productive.
Grape varieties: The most important grape of the region is the versatile Castelão Frances (nick named Periquita) which is used to make red, rosé and sparkling wines. Espadeiro and Monvendro are also grown, but imported varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are gaining in popularity. Apart from the Muscat of Alexandria, Arinita and Esgana Cão are the most significant white varieties. Chardonnay, Riesling and Gewürztraminer are also successfully grown.
Vinho Verde #1
It is the white wines from this region that are most often seen around the world. It is Portugal ’s largest demarcated wine region, extending from Vale de Cambra south of the river Douro to the river Minho that forms the frontier with Spain . It officially divides into six sub-regions, distinquished by climatic differences and the white grape varieties grown there.
Within this region you will find some of the oldest manor houses and noble families in the country dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. This region is punctuated by a patchwork of farms and estates, producing a wide variety of agricultural products including grapes. Vinho Verde is famous for its landscape of evergreen mountains and valleys, with mild winters and warm pleasant summers. A region steeped in history, where wine has always played a major role as the best companion for the local fresh fish, meat, poultry and home-grown-vegetables.
Grape varieties: Alvarinho, a prestigious variety which produces one of the best but least typical Vinho Verdes. Alcohol levels can be up to 13% and the wines are notable age-worthy. Loureiro, Trajadura and Pedernã all grow in the Vinho Verde DOC around the towns of Braga , Barcelos and Guimarães. These high-yielding vines produce wines that are light and fresh, typically with an alcoholic strength between 8 and 10%. Avesso is an important variety grown around the town of Baião in the Vinho Verde producing a slightly fuller style of wine.
Carmello's & Little Portugal Portuguese Wine List
Red Wines
Alentejo
Adega da Cartuxa Pera Manca, Alentejo ($150) (Currently Out of Stock)
The white and red Pera-Manca are cult wines in Portugal, only released in the best years. A lively garnet wine with aromas of raisins, berries and plums, complemented by the wood used in aging to its fine depth. This wine is velvety and harmonious, has a rich body and balanced tannins that ensure a lengthy finish and longevity. Grape: Trincadeira 100%
J. P. Ramos Marques De Borba Reserva, Alentejo 2004 ($100)
Trincadeira, Aragônes, Alicante Bouschet and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting notes: Deep in colour. Enormous concentration of aromas. Notes of jammy red fruit and spices. Potent and elegant. Solid, vigorous, with compact and well integrated tannis. Long and distinct finish. A wine for ageing. Website:
http://www.jportugalramos.com/eng/home.htm
Cortes de Cima Reserva, Alentejo 2004 ($100)
A blend of Aragonez, Touriga Nacional, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep red, garnet edges. developing bouquet showing spicy oak, balsamic and mocha notes, mint, blackcurrant fruit, earth and savoury fruit on the palate, oak complexity with hints of chocolate, soft, nice balance, good length, well structured tannins. Ratings: 91 Parker, 91 Wine Enthusiast, 88 Wine Spectator. Website: http://cortesdecima.com/
Cortes de Cima Incógnito, Alentejo 2005 ($100)
The 2005 INCOGNITO, Cortes de Cima’s famous, erstwhile “outlaw” Syrah, is rather well balanced this year, almost wimpy by some prior standards. Often the most flamboyant wine in the lineup, this actually shows some elegance and character, perhaps from the touch of game. It has a soft, rather sensual texture and good flavors still, but it also shows welcome restraint. There are supporting tannins along the edges. There are some quibbles here. The mid-palate seems rather thin at first for its price category, but it does flesh out with some air. The gamey note on the wine is unusual for this bottling, although not as pronounced as on the regular Syrah, and not entirely unwelcome. This is certainly a very different Incognito, but the bright, succulent finish is a pleasure, and I liked it more and more as it aired out. Drink now-2015. - Mark Squires - eRobertParker.com, Dec 2007( 89 points) Website: http://cortesdecima.com/
A wine that has become something of a cult in Portugal , perhaps because of its mystery ame (referring to a time when Syrah was not permitted in Portugal ). This 2005 keeps the open, ripe blackberry jam fruit, with dark chocolate and herbal flavors. It has a generous, earthy character. (89 points WE) — R.V. WE (7/1/2008)
Quinta Do Carmo Reserva, Alentejo 2004 ($72)
Deep ruby red. Very intense nose of cherry and redcurrant fruit that is so characteristic of the vintage. Ripe and full-bodied, with an exotic flavor profile. Creamy and lush, with plenty of mocha, raspberry and cocoa flavors and hints of mango. Lots of oak that is certainly present but not overpowering.
Herdade Do Esporao Garrafeira Private Select, Alentejo 2004 ($65)
“A powerful, rich wine, with a dense, ripe tannic mouthfeel. The structure is all about tamed opulence – it is generous wine, with its black plum, cherry and spice flavors and acidity that gives the whole wine, despite its richness, a great lift.” Rating: 91 points Wine Enthusiast
Dona Maria Reserva, Alentejo 2004 ($68)
The grapes to make this wine are all made from old vines that have been fermented in ancient marble "lagares" with the foot-treading technique. By doing this, it brings out the most concentrated quality from the grapes. Rating: 92 points Wine Spectator, 91 points Wine Advocate
Herdade Do Esporao Reserva, Alentejo 2006 ($35)
Plums, prunes & vanilla and a soft round & velvety palate. Pairs well with Paelha Valenciana.
Dona Maria, Alentejo 2005 ($35)
Showing a vivid violet color with complex red fruits and toasted character in the nose. On the palate it is filled with rich red fruits, with a very soft and plush character with low acidity and no hard edges. Rating: 86 points Wine Advocate
Marques De Borba, Alentejo 2006 ($34)
A blend of Trincadeira, Aragones, and Periquita. Perfumed with flowery strawberry blossom aromas, this medium colored red wine has a soft, mild, fruity round texture, with a bit of herbal edge. Medium in body and gentle on the palate, the fruit is pure and bright, the annins low and long finish. Rating: 87 points Wine Spectator. Website: http://www.jportugalramos.com/eng/home.htm
Esporao Vinha Da Defesa, Alentejo 2004 ($34)
The wine expresses itself with lots of prune, dark chocolate, mocha blended with a spicy, dark berry character that comes across with good structure from the Aragonez grape mixed with fragrant raspberry and soft fleshy fruit flavors of Castelao Frances. Rating: 86 points Wine Advocate
Bom Juiz Reserva, Alentejo 2003 ($33)
A blend of Aragonese, Castelao, Trincadeira, and Tinta Caiada. A ruby-colored wine with a crystalline look and evolved jamlike spicy aroma. Vigorous in the mouth, it has a slightly tannic finish.
Cortes De Cima Chamine, Alentejo 2007 ($30)
A blend of Aragonez, Syrah, Touriga Nacional, Trincadeira, Cabernet. Attractive bright red colour with purple edges. Aroma showing perfumed red berry fruits with some smoke and spice complexity. Palate very smooth and round, extremely well balanced, good texture and nice depth of ripe fruit, supple tannins, soft finish. Website: http://cortesdecima.com/
100 Marias, Alentejo 2006 ($28)
Dry red wine from the Alentejo region. A blend of Aragonez and Trincadeira grapes. Full body with a very delicate and elegant palate with hints of dark fruits.
Borba (Sub-region of Alentejo)
Adega De Borba (Cork Label), Borba 2003 ($35)
The flagship wine of the Adega De Borba cooperative. It is concentrated, dense wine that lingers on the palate. Full of dark fruits and exotic spices, with a strong tannic backbone to complete a very refined and elegant wine.
Montes Claros, Borba 2001 ($32)
Supple red with a touch of elegance and flavors of red plum, orange peel and sandalwood. Like an old-style Rioja, but with a crisp finish.
Doa
Casa De Santar Reserva, Doa 2004 ($40)
This is the jewel of the Casa de Santar portfolio. Elegant and well-structured. A meaty aroma leads to dark plum, raspberry and dark cherry flavors, with supple tannins on the spicy finish. Rating: 90 points Wine Spectator
Grilos, Doa 2006 ($29)
A blend of Touriga National and Alfrocheiro. The color is an intense ruby. The aroma shows notes of red fruits like black cherry and raspberry. In the mouth it has an excellent structure and balance between acids and tannins. Aged for six months in French oak barrels. Goes well with beef or lamb. Rating: 85 points by Wine Spectator
Douro
Quinta Do Crasto Vinha Da Ponte, Douro 2004 ($150)
This impresssive wine has a rich open nose of spicy red and black fruits. The palate is supple and elegant with good acidity and structure. Not too big, in a lovely, spicy style. This is an elegant wine with a bright future ahead of it. Modern styled but quite delicious.
“Vibrant, lush and seductive, with a creamy core of boysenberry, dark cherry and cassis flavours. Mineral and smoke fill the long finish. Exquisite balance and a broad structure make this hard to resist. Like a dry Port. Drink now through 2014.” Kim Marcus. Rating: 95 points Wine Spectator
Alves de Sousa “Abandonado”, Douro 2005 ($180)
The 2005 ABANDONADO is principally a blend of Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional from this winery’s old, nearly abandoned vineyard (hence the poetic name, Abandonado). It spent 15 months in a blend of Portuguese and French oak. The 2004 vintage of this small production wine was sensational and immediately became one of the Douro’s top wines. The 2005 is a close competitor and one of the stars of the vintage. If it lacks the 2004’s density and intensity, it does some things better. Take the nose, for instance--the first thing you notice—the wonderful, powerful bouquet. Get within half a foot of this and you’ll say, “Oh, my.” It joins the 2005 Maria Teresa from Crasto as wines with amazing aromatics in this vintage. The relatively modest mid-palate weight is typical of the 2005 vintage. Yet, it is nicely structured and balanced, with well integrated tannins that persist to the next day but do not overwhelm the wine. Its overt fruit flavors are a pleasure, too. It is simply, completely delicious, in fact, cherries, plums, strawberries and vanilla intermingling, with a hint of kirsch on the bouquet. It has an intensity of flavor that I think is better than on the ’04. I suspect this might even spark some “international” criticisms because it is so sexy, and yes, a little flamboyant. Have at it. But overall, this is also lovely, precise and graceful. And, don’t forget…simply delicious. It drank well on Day 2 as well. Drink now-2018.
The Alves de Sousa ‘Abandonado’ Douro, 2005 hails from 80+ year old vineyards and is a field blend of Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and others… It also spent 12 months in new Portuguese oak (something I noticed was being used sporadically around Portugal). Dense in colour with aromas of sun-warmed berry aromas – blueberry and blackberry – tar and meaty, charred notes, sweet spices and purple flowers. Decadent, concentrated ripe fruit and chocolate with toasty/char flavours on the finish. An excellent wine – in need of decanting.
Fojo Touriga Nacional, Douro 2000 ($150)
Made from vines over 100 years this wine exhibits a great nose with depth and complexity notes of strawberries, raspberries and a touch of minerality and soft spices. On the palate, it is a pleasure to sip its full body, well-integrated tannins and acidity, with flavors of dark fruit compote and a hint of vanilla due to its aging in French oak. Grapes: Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca and Touriga Franca.
Quinta Do Castro Touriga Nacional, Douro 2004 ($95)
“Seductive, with deep, intense color and rich, loamy aromas and flavours of cassis, dark cherry and dark chocolate. Supple, finegrained tannins, and a long powerful finish of red pepper and smoke. Finely balanced and well structured. A monumental Touriga. Drink now through 2015.” Kim Marcus. Rating: 96 points Wine Spectator
Quinta Do Vale Meao, Douro 2005 ($100) (Currently Out of Stock)
"Powerful aromas of rose petal and kirsch are followed by intense flavors of raspberry, mocha, dark plum and chocolate. There's an impressive minerality and creaminess that lingers on the long, lush finish. Drink now through 2014." 94 points Wine Spectator
Vallado Reserva Tinto, Douro 2005 ($85)
"A powerhouse of a wine that promises huge fruit flavors, this is a time bomb of richness, which will break through those dark tannins and the closed, dense texture." -Wine Enthusiast
"A selection of the best bunches from vines more than 80 years old, this is youthfully tight and unyielding, a dark red wine compressed into cool spice. Air brings out the complexity and supple elegance of the fruit." -Wine & Sprits Magazine
Rating: 94 points and #28 on Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Wines of 2008, 94 points from Wine & Spirits Magazine, 92 points from Wine Spectator
Alves De Sousa Reserva Pessoal, Douro 2003 ($80)
"The 2003 'Reserva Pessoal' is a relatively friendly and gentle wine, with a more fruit forward demeanor, a little less intensity and less pure power. It is softer and more sensual, although tannins pop up on the finish, and become stronger with air. The fruit is juicy, nuanced by plums and blackberries, and extremely tasty. It is an attractive and stylish wine, with good fruit and enough structure. There is some grip on the finish. This is a little dumb at the moment, but should be beautiful. Rating: 90 points Wine Advocate
Quinta Vale D. Maria, Douro 2005 ($85)
The 2005 Tinto is delectable, with gorgeous fruit. It has structure, too, and with air its penetration and grip become obvious. Make no mistake, however, the reason for this wine's existence is to be seductive and sexy. The fruit opens nicely, a tasty cross between plums and strawberries. Rating: 93 points Robert Parker, 92 points Wine Spectator
Carm Grande Reserva, Douro 2005 (Organic) ($60)
Intense vinous aroma full of cherry jam, blackberries, and cassis with sweet chocolate, coffee and vanilla hints. Excellent with lamb dishes, red meats, or strong cheeses. Rating: 89 points Wine Spectator
Barros Touriga Nacional, Douro 2003 ($45)
Solid ruby colour, with barely a hint of brick at the rim. On the nose this immediately gives a creamy and smooth impression, with rich vanilla-scented berry fruits and notes of strawberry coulis and some background coffee. Rating: 88 points Wine Spectator
Quinta do Coa Reserva, Douro 2006 ($45)
This deep red coloured wine has an intense vinous aroma full of cherry jam, blackberries, rock-rose and cassis as well as coffee and vanilla hints. The structure is significant but supple, while the Touriga Nacional dominates this blend giving a wonderful balance of ripe black fruit with rich chocolate and toasty vanilla characters, culminating in a long fruity aftertaste and well balanced tannins. Decant before drinking.
Quinta Do Portal Reserva, Douro 2003 ($40)
Structured, rich, but also good with fresh acidity, this is one of the best wines in the Quinta do Portal range. It has lively, vibrant red fruit, along with dry tannins, some vanilla from wood aging. Great acidity in the aftertaste. – R.V. - Wine Enthusiast – September 2007. Rating: 91 points
Quinta Do Vallado Tinto, Douro 2005 ($40)
The majority of the grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks for a week, while a small portion of the grapes from the old vineyards were foot-trodden and fermented in lagers for the same period. This blend is dark red, with crimson highlights and a mature red fruit nose, with hints of (a local Portuguese herb) and dusty earth. The palate shows great structure and a full-bodied elegance, with mature, round tannins, leading to a long, persistent finish. Enjoy with light meat dishes, such as pork, or flavorful, hard cheeses, such as Italian cow and sheep’s milk cheeses. Varietal Composition: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roiz, Tinta Amorela, Tinta Barroca and Soudo. Ratings: 88 points Wine Spectator
DFJ ‘Escada’ Reserva, Douro 2005 ($40)
Escada blends the traditional Douro varietals of Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz to make this intense wine. It has creamy aromas – blackberry and black cherry, iodine and sweet vanillin oak and spice. The fruit is somewhat reserved, the power comes in the form of minerality, iodine and sweet oak – it needs time to soften but the structure is certainly there. Rating: 92 points Wine Enthusiast
Quinta Do Coa, Douro 2006 (Organic) ($34)
Made in a very elegant and well put together style. The fruit has a reserved presence in both aromas and texture on the palate with soft and accessible tannins. The pure fruit shows a good amount of complex raspberry character mixed with notes of herbs. Rating: 89 points Wine Advocate, 89 points Wine Spectator
Carm Colheita Seleccionada, Douro 2006 (Organic) ($34)
Deep red colour wine from the Douro region. An expression of dark blackberries, mulberry and dark cherries introduce this wine, followed by the seductive flavours of figs and liquorice. Rating: 88 points Wine Spectator, 88 points Wine Advocate
Quinta do Portal Mural, Douro 2004 ($32)
This red wine is aged in French oak casks for 9 months in our cellars. Full bodied, with a ripe berry colour and spicy aromas on the nose. Toasty and appetising in the mouth, it has an attractive and elegant finish.
Patamar Reserva Tinto, Douro 2005 ($32)
Deep full body red wine from the Douro region, structured with a fruity aroma combined with oak scents. The ageing in oak barrels develops a smoke fragrance that intensifies the pleasure to drink this wine. Rating: 89 points Wine Enthusiast
Domini, Douro 2003 ($32)
Full-bodied and elegant, with flavors of blackberry, plum and vanilla set against a backdrop of soft tannins. A joint venture between the inspired winemakers Domingos Soares Franco and Cristiano van Zeller. Grape Varieties: Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz. Rating: 90 points Wine Enthusiast
Vale Do Bomfim Reserva, Douro 2005 ($30)
This wine is opens with a bouquet of berries and oak. On the palate, this medium bodied wine is quite smooth, well balanced, easy to drink, and has forward cherry like flavors. The finish is quite dry, showing moderate tannins, and lingers. This is terrific value and pasta with red sauce and pizza wine.Grape Varieties: Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca
Vega Tinto, Douro 2005 ($28)
A red wine from the Douro region made with a blend of Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. The aromas are intriguing with an exotic almost perfumed character along with notes of coffee and black fruits. Rating: 88 points Wine Enthusiast Best Buy
Estremadura
Quinta De Chocapalha Reserva, Estremadura 2005 ($65)
Dark, perfumed, intense spicy nose is really vivid. Lovely boldness. The palate is bold and rich, spicy and full with good structure and nice freshness.
Quinta De Chocapalha, Estremadura 2005 ($40)
Intense violet colour. Very concentrated in the nose with well ripe fruit. Excellent concentration of ripe berry fruit with very well balanced acidity. Rating: 87 WA
An eclectic blend that brings together Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet, Castelão and Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep coloured, with beautifully vivid pure fruit on the nose. The palate is ripe and full with vivid dark fruits and spicy, chocolatey richness. Rating: 87 WA
Quinta De Pancas Cabernet, Estremadura 2005 ($33)
This Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in new oak barrels, imparting flavors of vanilla and spice. It has elements of black currant, pepper and a hint of mint.
Obidos
Quinta De S. Francisco, Obidos 2005 ($30)
Ruby color with aromas of red brewed fruits. In the mouth it is smooth and spicy with a persistent finish. Aged for 8 months in small oak barrels.
Palmela
Quinta Mimosa, Palmela 2004 ($34)
With dramatic wild cherry aromas and a soft, round texture the wine has nicely integrated smooth fruit flavors. Spicy with vanilla and nutlike accents, the wine is balanced and it will age well for about 4 years.
White Wines
Alentejo
Cartuxa Pera Manca Branco, Alentejo 2005 ($58)
"The white and red Pera-Manca are cult wines in Portugal, only released in the best years. The white has partial barrel fermentation, giving great richness and depth of flavor, as well as smooth toastiness. With its high proportion of Antao Vaz, it is very white Burgundy in its richness and sense of mineral terroir. Delicious acidity rounds the wine out." Rating: 93 Points Wine Enthusiast
Herdade Do Esporao Private Selection Branco, Alentejo 2006 ($47)
Barrel-fermented, showing great complexity on the nose and palate, this pale straw-colored wine offers a pleasant and pronounced nose of vanilla, pineapple and nectarines, which carry through on the palate. Crisp and full-bodied, it is a magnificent accompaniment to seafood, chicken and cheeses. Rating: 85 points Wine Spectator
Dona Maria Branco, Alentejo 2007 ($35)
This tasty pale yellow wine from Portugal opens with a clean and fresh citrus like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium to full bodied, very creamy and fleshy. It displays green apple and pear like flavors. The finish is dry and refreshing.
Herdade Do Esporao Reserva Branco, Alentejo 2007 ($34)
Esporão Branco D.O.C. Reserva is a rich, full bodied dry white wine with depth and complexity resulting from fermentation in new American oak barrels. Served best with shellfish & baked fish. Rating: 84 points Wine Spectator
Monte Velho Branco, Alentejo 2007 ($28)
Granite/schist rock with clay/loam soil in the Alentejo region give us this wine with a cristal clear, lemon straw colour with a ripe, perfumed aromatic fruity palate. Full, flavoursome, well balanced. Excellent with grilled fish. Rating: 87 points Wine Advocate
Douro
Castello D’Alba Branco, Douro 2006 ($30)
A blend of indigenous Codega, Viosinho and Rabigato grapes. It shows skillfully managed barrel treatment in its lush, rich, creamy texture and vanilla notes, but those elements seamlessly blend with ripe citrus (think oranges or tangerines) and gingery spice. A long finish cements this wine's impressive quality. Rating: 90 points Wine Enthusiast
Estremadura
Portada Branco, Estremadura 2007 ($27)
Dry white wine from the Estremadura region. A blend of Fernao Pires, Arinto, Alvarinho and Chardonnay grapes. Dry bright white, fruited, young refreshing with apple and lemon notes in the aroma and tasting. It's a pleasant easy drinking wine. Rating: 84 points Wine Enthusiast
Moncao
Varanda Do Conde, Moncao 2007 ($29)
Refreshing and crisp with a light sparkle and apple tartness. This young white wine pairs well with seafood. "An ambitious Vinho Verde from Onaco, this is packed with pink grapefruit and kumquat flavors. It finishes brisk and spicy, with an herbal grassiness to the acidity that will stand up to roast black cod or other meaty fish." Wine & Spirits 89 points
Terras Do Sado
Pires Muscat, Terras Do Sado 2006 ($33)
This is a dry muscat wine with a very floral and notes of tropical fruits, hints of white flowers with an almost Alsatian character. It delivers exotic profile on the palate with good amount of richness and complexity yet lively.
Adega De Pegoes, Terras Do Sado 2007 ($27)
The grapes grown on sandy soils from vines perfectly identified, they are harvested in August / September when the balance acid / sugar is ideal. Very aromatic, floral and fresh with good body. A great value from Portugal
Vinho Verde
Portal Fidalgo Alvarinho, Vinho Verde 2007 ($36)
This feels superripe at first, with sweet peach and nectarine flavors. Air brings it to a tigher balance, cool and clear, the texture building succulence supported by acidity. An intriguing white to serve with a citrusy octopus salad.
Ponte De Lima, Vinho Verde 2007 ($27)
Fresh, light and smooth. The wine is clear, with citrus colour and straw reflexes. Its young aroma and floral bouquet offers a delicate flavour. Balanced acidity and refreshing finish. Loureiro, Trajadura and Pederna grapes.
Borges Gatao, Vinho Verde ($27)
A typical "green" wine from Northern Portugal that can only be found in that region. Clear, greenished hued, light and fresh with subtle citrus tones on the nose and the palate. Lightly spritzy. A perfect warm weather and/or seafood wine. Rating 86 points Wine Spectator
* Check back soon because many more Portuguese wines are coming July 2009
