Box: July 2018
Refreshing Portuguese summer
Indeed we are sooo predictable. Every summer the same thing, and every summer we love it. Of course this is Vinho Verde from Portugal!
What better way to sit out the heat of summer than with light, low alcohol wines that are crisp and clean. Sometimes a little sparkle, others a bit more acidity, but always a delight.
We have two Vinho Verde in this months box. The fist a classic entry level summer hit with a very light carbonation and ready for your picnic basket, the second a more suitable drink for a summer dinner in the garden. A bit more serious and complex.
As for our reds, we bring a tour de force of blends this month. From dark ruby red to “even darker” black red, you will get a mix of current, leather, tobacco and vanilla that will keep you guessing what exactly are those grapes. These are complex and strong blends, that will make you forget all about anything except relaxing on your holiday.
So be it a pick me “Light and bright”, or a lay me down “Deep and heavy”, this month’s treats from Portugal have your summer covered.
Escudo Real Bianco
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Vinho Verde
- Alcohol: 9,5%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 160 Kč
Mike's Tip
Young and bubbly. Exactly what Vinho Verde should be. Look for a crisp acidity coming from grapefruit and apples. An excellent choice for a cold lunch of salad and sandwiches, or just a bag of chips. Light and fun.
Quinta da Lixa – Escolha
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Vinho Verde
- Alcohol: 11,5%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 233 Kč
Mike's Tip
Yes Vinho Verde can be fancy ! This medium to high end wine of the region is dry yet has a long tail making it more serious than the picnic Vinho Verde variety. Pair this with fish or pasta with your dinner.
Casa das Gaeiras – Bianco
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 279 Kč
Mike's Tip
Gaeiras is a small town about one hour north of Lisbon and makes beautifully balanced wines with good body and character. Look for a mix of floral tones, lemon and pineapple.
Quinta dos Garnachos
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Full-bodied red aged in oak
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 279 Kč
Mike's Tip
Let to rest 9 months in oak barrels, this ruby red blend of four varieties gives good structure and a balanced flavor. Pair with strong foods like salami or baked meats.
Casa de Satar
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13,5%
- Style: Full-bodied red aged in oak
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 259 Kč
Mike's Tip
Aged for 6 months in French oak, this wine did not loose its' tannins. Full and fruity, but with a more aggressive finish. Strong meat dishes will pair best with this wine and you will want a little something to break it up.
Monte Velho
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14%
- Style: Full-bodied, rich red wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 225 Kč
Mike's Tip
Yet another blend of 4 grapes. 40% Aragonez, 35% Trincadeira, 20% Touriga Nacional, and 5% Syrah. Probably more than you want to know, but this was my favorite and best value red in the box! Red berries and black spice - loved it!
Herdade das Servas
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 292 Kč
Mike's Tip
Young and mysterious. Look for juicy red fruits and floral and grassy hints. Elegant and balanced all in a juicy red that is meant to drink young. This is your summer go to :-)
Herdade das Servas Seleccionada
Wine description:
- Country: Portugal
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 15%
- Style: Full-bodied, rich red wine
- Drink: Wine suitable for aging
- Supplier: Oliveira
- Price: 519 Kč
Mike's Tip
Exceptional ruby color and balance in this medium bodied, very elegant red from the eastern border of Portugal. Cherry, Chocolate and Spice = everything nice :-)