For this month’s Somm Series, we’re traveling to the
rising-star wine region of Portugal!
We'll explore some of the most exciting selections available from this
dynamic and often underestimated destination. Stop by Joe’s during the week of
May 23 – 29 to sample one of these rare selections by the glass:
Vinho Verde, as the name implies, is not actually green
wine. The region itself is called Vinho
Verde, referring to the style of wine, which is meant to be consumed very soon
after bottling (and often times is bottled with effervescence). The 2014 Portal da Calçada, Vinho
Verde ($5 6oz) offers an exceptional value for a region that has
tremendous potential. Produced from a blend of Loureiro, Arinto, Azal and
Trajadura, the wine exhibits yellow citrus notes and very fresh aromas. Bright
fruit with vivid acidity on the finish create a great match for Oysters on the
Half Shell.
Next, we’ll move down the coast to the Alentejo wine region,
located in central Portugal, which offers a landscape comparable to that of the
Mediterranean region. The 2014 Esporão, White Reserve ($7 6oz) is
a tremendous example of the finesse you can find within the white wines of
Portugal. With rich aromatics of white peach and orange zest, the wine is
generous on the palate with great depth and balance. Vibrant minerality
combined with notes of ripe stone fruit create a wonderful complement for our
Halibut with white asparagus and morel mushrooms.
A recent trip I took to the Douro region of northeastern
Portugal was both exciting and enlightening. Standing amidst the steep
vineyards which tower over the Douro River, you can’t help but be swept up in
the energy of the area. Produced from grapes typically used for port, the 2010
Quinta dos Murças, Red Reserve ($14 per 6oz) is an outstanding effort
from this winery. Rich black and blue fruit notes dominate the nose and the
palate. Supple tannins mingle with subtle hints of mocha, pairing nicely with
our Bone-In Filet.
The thought of
Portugal together with wine generally conjures images of the powerful fortified
wines from the Porto region located in the north. As an added bonus to this month’s Somm
Series, we are giving you good reason to 'save room for dessert' and experience
the beauty of these wines. The 1985 vintage was one of the greatest years on record
for port production and, for a limited time, we are giving you the opportunity
to experience a glass of liquid history at an unbelievable price of $15 for a
2oz pour.
Wine Tip: To
help you navigate your port selection, follow these guidelines:
·
Ruby is generally light and fruity
·
Tawny will impart subtle nuttiness
·
LBV has the same quality as a Vintage Port at a
fraction of the cost
·
Vintage Port will be rich and powerful and
partners perfectly with Stilton cheese.
Follow me on twitter @invitisveritas. Tell me what’s in your
glass #wiyg
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