The Wines of Portugal

A New Series on Modern Yet Old School Wines

They say the wines of Portugal are a real national treasure. With over 250 grape varieties and 200 microclimates featuring a vast array of soil types, it’s no wonder that the wines are distinctive, flavorful and drinkable. 

So, to put it bluntly, there is so much more going on in Portugal besides Vinho Verde.

Wines of Portugal is a treasure-trove of all things, well wine and Portugal. They put on a master tasting here in Seattle recently (with a bonus lesson in Portuguese pronunciation) led by Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein. The event was lively and informative. The best part, however: the 10 Portuguese wines ready to be tasted. 

From light, fruit forward Alvarinho to heavy, full-bodied and rich port and everything in-between, classic grapes in the hands of master Portuguese winemakers are crafted into exciting wines. The balance between old world and the new with contemporary approaches makes each one of these 10 wines worthy of a taste.

In the next week, we’ll go through my favorites. Some are easier to find stateside than others.

1. Quinta de Gomariz Alvarinho — Refreshing and Bright

2. Quinta de S. Francisco – What a Bottle. What a Value!

3. The Wonderful Complexity of Luis Pato’s Vinhas Velhas Tinto

4. Playful and Abundant: Duas Quintas Ramos Pinto Douro Red Blend

5. Porto Messias is an Excellent Port