Prova Portugal! Discover Portuguese Wine was an opportunity to experience the unique character and experience the vibrant flavors of the great wines of Portugal. It was a rare opportunity to taste the wines and meet first-hand the wine producers who are shaping their growing reputation.
For a nation that has a wine history that predates most European countries, it is surprising that Portugal is only now beginning to gain in popularity.
For example, Portugal was the first to bring European wines to the Americas.
Portugal has the highest density of native grapes in the world. It has 9th largest vineyard area and is the 10th largest wine producer.
Sonia Vieria is Director of Marketing for Wines of Portugal. She was on hand to personally illuminate the importance of Portugal’s unique position in the world of wine.
Wines of Portugal are like no others. The regions all have their own distinctive style and native grapes. Douro, Alentejo, Dao E Lafoes, Bairrada Lisboa and Tejo are the regional names you will see on the labels. Each one has its own unique character and story to tell.
“It’s a good time to get to know our wines because they are so different. Young wine drinkers are discovering the wines made from our indigenous grapes and trying them with all types of cuisines. They’re finding that the pairing possibilities are endless!”
The panorama of wines presented at both the seminar and walk-around tasting was dizzying.
Beginning with the Original Baga Bairrada Brut Reserve 2019 from Quatro Cravos, it was an adventure.
Made in the classic Traditional Method it possessed elegant bubbles and the aroma of ripe wild fruits backed up by a hint light toast.
Lynn Monge Export Manager for Lindeborg Wines introduced her stunning Cortem Pinot Noir Superior 2023 from Lisboa. This elegant red was bristling with flavors of wild berries and baking spices. Its soft tannins gave it a smooth finish that seemed to caress the inside of your mouth. Each sip made you thirst for more.
Jose Manuel Moreira Marques Managing Director of Arcos Rei poured his Coracao Rose also from Lisbon. It was a captivating wine with bright acidity and beautiful flavors of well-ripened berries that literally danced on the tongue.
Manuel Oliveira of Quinta Do Crasto poured his Altitude 480 from Douro DOC. The name speak for itself. A robust wine from the interior mountains, the grapes benefitted from strong ocean breezes and rich soils at higher elevation. This is a wine to enjoy with grilled meats, cheeses and a variety of cuisines.
For more on these delicious wines, visit winesofportugal com. Drink Responsibly.
