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We are going to take you on a trip today to one of my favourite countries that I have not yet visited. Richard visited there about 6 years ago, and we are both going to go there in about 2 years. We have always enjoyed the wines from Portugal and it is nice that we are seeing some new ones come here for us to explore.

When people think of wine and Portugal, they automatically think of “Port”. It is an incredibly delectable fortified wine that one would sip after enjoying a fabulous meal… or when celebrating something special… or just ‘cause. Well, you get the idea. Portugal also makes some of the most amazing wines that are not fortified – both still and sparkling.

Aliança Vinhos de Portugal came to be in 1927. “Present in the main wine regions of the country, Aliança believes in quality, and to accomplish the goal, the company purchased several Estates, in regions such as Alentejo, Douro, Dão, Bairradas and Beiras, exploring around 600 ha of winery.” Although in the ‘old world’ wine region of Portugal, Aliança has been modernizing their wine production (vineyards), vinification areas and wine cellars. One has to keep up with the times to keep making the best wine they can for you and I to enjoy.

Vista TN

Winery: Aliança Vinhos de Portugal
Vintage: 2006
Location:Portugal
Alcohol: 13.5%
Blend: Touriga Nacional
Tasting: Wednesday, August 18, 2010 - 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Touriga Nacional is a grape variety indigenous to Portugal. Many people call it the heart and soul of Portugal, as it not only makes incredible wine, but it is also the backbone of Port. Touriga Nacional is an early ripening grape that gives wonderful colour and tannins to wine. Its berries are smaller and their yield is around half of other grape varieties. The skin on this grape is very thick, which is good for two reasons: 1) It is able to withstand the searing heat in Portugal 2) It gives colour like you wouldn’t believe to wines, whether it is used as a single varietal or blended with other grape varieties. It is also the most expensive grape variety in Portugal.

This particular wine, Vista TN (the TN stands for Touriga Nacional) has a deep almost black purple colour. The aromas are rich ripe red fruit with a hint of French Oak. It aged in the Oak for one year. The oak is not overpowering though. The winemaker is Francisco Antunes, who is also the winemaker for the Vista TR. He has quite an impressive resumé. Including the prize for “Melhor Enólogo” (Best Winemaker) at Essência do Vinho 2006 Portugal. He has been lauded by Decanter Magazine, Wine Spectator Magazine, The International Wine Challenge in London, and Mundus Vini” Germany to name just a few. These events and magazines have recognized some of the wines the Francisco has made of the years.

Food Pairing:

Robust grilled and roasted meats; Aged Cheese.

CSPC: 738759
Price:

$14.50 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Vista TR

Winery: Aliança Vinhos de Portugal
Vintage: 2006
Location:Portugal
Alcohol: 13.5%
Blend: 85% Tinta Roriz, 15% Touriga Nacional
Tasting: Wednesday, August 18, 2010 - 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The “TR” in this name also refers to a grape variety. Tinta Roriz. This is a classic grape variety in Portugal, but it is not indigenous to the country. It is known as Tempranillo in Spain, which is its birthplace. It is also known by other names in different regions in Portugal. That is just to confuse the heck out of you and I. They want to keep us on our toes! (As an example: Aragonêz in the Alentejo region of Portugal)

The grapes are very thick skinned like the Touriga Nacional, which helps it cope with the hot hot summers. It also gives the wine the wonderful tannins. Also like the Touriga Nacional it is an early ripening grape.

The colour of this wine is a deep red with some violet overtones. The aromas of blackberry and raspberry jam are ever present. Just on the end you will note a wee touch of the oak. Again, just to compliment, not to be overbearing. The taste gives way to rich dark plums with some dark cherry flavours too.

Food Pairing:

Roasted or grilled beef; Roasted or grilled lamb; cheese, especially aged.

CSPC: 738758
Price:

$12.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Next week Richard and I are off to Chile for a cool white and a hot red.