An article by Nicky Rampley-Clarke in the Evening Standard looks into the diverse world of Portuguese wines which come from 55 different regions and almost 200 indigenous grape varieties. The most well-known regions include Douro, Minho, and Dão, each offering unique flavours and characteristics. Portuguese wines are generally made from indigenous grapes, giving them a distinct, full-bodied and fruit-filled flavour. They are also under-appreciated so offer great value for money.
The recommended wines are:
- Altano Organic Douro Rosé 2021: A rosé with fresh aromas of jasmine and lychee, made by the Symington Family Estate in the Douro Valley. Harvey Nichols.
- Cuba Azul Alvarinho 2022: A rich and complex white wine with tropical-fruit notes, from the small town of Mogege in the Vinho Verde region. Morrisons.
- Esporão Reserva Organic Red 2020: A silky red wine from Alentejo, packed with notes of coffee, berries and cigars.
- Morrisons The Best Vinho Verde Rosé: A vinho verde rosé featuring an Espadeiro grape. Morrisons.
- Porta 6 Sparkling Brut: A sparkling wine serving up peach and pear aromas, a refreshing alternative to Prosecco. Asda.
- Quinta de Saes Reserva: A full-bodied red wine from the Dão region, intense with dark-fruit flavours. Selfridges.
- Monte de Peceguina Tinto: An elegant red from Alentejo, vibrant with red fruits and subtle tannins. Selfridges.
- Beefsteak Club Douro DOC The Beast Dark Red: A decadent red with ripe, forest-fruit flavours from the Douro region. Asda.
- Asda Extra Special Douro: A rich and full-bodied Douro wine. Asda.
- M&S Lisboa Bonita: A complex red made from a blend of grape varieties local to Portugal’s Atlantic coast. M&S.
- Sainsbury’s Portuguese Alvarinho: A crisp and fresh Alvarinho from Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference range. Sainsbury’s.
- Tesco Finest Douro: A powerful but elegant red made from indigenous grapes of the Douro Valley. Tesco.
