By ROBIN RABORN BURNS
Voice correspondent
Thursday, December 4 turned into a delicious mini-vacation for anyone who loves good wine, great food, and even better company. Craig Annen and Bill Lamoreaux Bottle, managers of Cork-n-Bottle hosted their latest World Tour of Wines event at the Coronado Community Center, and this stop on the “tour” whisked guests away to the sun-splashed vineyards of Portugal.
And what a night it was! This event drew the largest crowd yet in the World Tour of Wines series, over 120 people—proof that Portugal has some serious fans in Hot Springs Village.
To complete the culinary adventure, Alanna Owen, owner of MELINDA’s, prepared a lineup of Portuguese-inspired dishes that paired perfectly with each pour. The result? A room full of happy travelers who didn’t have to board a single plane.
The Menu That Made Everyone Say “Saúde!”
Guests were welcomed with a glass of Casas Del Mar Cava Rosé, a sparkler with hints of summer strawberries and a whisper of toasted vanilla—bright, crisp, and perfect for the Champagne lover.
1. Broadbent Vinho Verde
Paired with Puff Pastry Chorizo Cups with Crema
Fresh, spritzy, and straight-from-Portugal delicious, this Vinho Verde has earned a reputation as one of the finest thanks to meticulous production and temperature-controlled shipping that preserves its lively character.
2. Mateus Rosé
Paired with Cucumber, Tomato & Pepper Salad
With its signature pink glow and slightly fizzy finish, this iconic rosé brought youthfulness, brightness, and charm to a refreshing salad course.
3. Papa Figos Douro Red
Paired with Portuguese Pork Stew with Carrots
Deep ruby and elegantly layered with red fruit, spices, and just-right tannins, this Douro red was the perfect match for a cozy, aromatic stew. Warm, hearty, and wonderfully Portuguese.
4. Osborne Tawny Port -Paired with Portuguese Cinnamon Pudding Cake
A soft, fruity, slightly sweet port that wrapped up the evening like a dessert-wine hug—especially alongside the fragrant, cinnamon-kissed cake.
The celebration wrapped up with six raffle drawings. Prizes included:
Two sets of tickets for two to “Muses”
A bottle of Monticello wine
Two $50 gift certificates to Cork-n-Bottle
A bottle of Villa Sparina wine
Wine, food, friends, laughter, prizes—Portugal proved to be an irresistible destination for the evening. And as always, Cork-n-Bottle delivered a world-class experience right here at home.
Dining and Cooking