Box: January 2017
Something New for 2017
In the grand IWCoK tradition of Janury, we once again bring you something new. Not just a new year, not just new wines, but a new supplier to boot ! 2017 welcomes Vina z Portugalska to the IWCoK portfolio !
It will be no surprise as to what these guys do, and they do it very well. In the past we have always concentrated on vinho verde in the summer months because it is such a good fit, but this time we went for wines that were a bit fuller. Lets go discover the Portugal that does great in the winter!
- For white we have very strong contenders in the Chardonnay and Sauvignon varieties, but it is the Alvarino, Verdejo cuvee that steels the show. Not only is this wine a 90 point Parker joy, the presentation is an absolute joy (yes, there are sheep involved ;-)
- The reds all provide a full bodied taste delivered from cuvees of local varieties. Be in vanilla, pepper. tobacco or oak, each red has a distinct flavor that brings something to the party. And remember this name – Jose Maria Da Fonseca. The guy is a genius.
All the more I can say is 2017 is (already) looking really good !!!
Fiuza Chardonnay
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 235 Kč
Mike's Tip
A very long finish on this surprisingly light chardonnay. The 3 months in oak give it a touch of vanilla along with a little pineapple and banana. Another great wine with fish and pork.
Fiuza Sauvignon
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Sauvignon blanc
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 235 Kč
Mike's Tip
A fresh, "green" Sauvignon with all the hallmark flavor of this classic grape. Look for tropical fruit and green apple flavors. A perfect pair for white fish and salads.
Santa Vitoria Bianco
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 285 Kč
Mike's Tip
Less acidity makes this a very easy wine to drink. Very clear peach and pear flavors make this a fruit bowl of taste. Great for just sipping on the sofa.
Santa Vitoria Reserva Tinto
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14,5%
- Style: Full-bodied red aged in oak
- Drink: Wine suitable for aging
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 285 Kč
Mike's Tip
Big, powerfull and exeptionally well done. This cuvee of regional varieites was aged in oak for 9 months to yield an exceptionally soft and full delight.
Quinta de Camarate
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 330 Kč
Mike's Tip
90 points from Robert Parker give you all the introduction you need. Exceptionally smooth for such minerality and what can you say - gotta love that label!
Montado
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 195 Kč
Mike's Tip
Where does this smooth, light red hide 14% ? Another great entry from the winery of Jose Maria Da Fonseca. Maybe not what you will pull out for that special occasion, but simply a great entry for any place, any time.
Varal Tinto
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 215 Kč
Mike's Tip
Very light and a touch of vanilla. Indeed a young wine, but a good hint of pepper and a very well rounded finish. A great every day wine that will go with anything.
Monte da Ravasqueira Reserva
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13,5%
- Style: Full-bodied, rich red wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Vína z Portugalska
- Price: 475 Kč
Mike's Tip
And lets introduce the big man in the room. This Syrah based cuveé is smooth as silk. Full of fruit and ready for any big celebration. And all from one of the most respected wineries in the country.