Portuguese Wine, food and culture were celebrated at Vinho Voyage presented by Wines of Portugal and Tourism of Portugal. Over 100 wines along with culinary pleasures, live entertainment and ideas for inspired travel were presented in an immersive event.
Vinhos de Portugal (Wines of Portugal) was created in 2010 with the express purpose of incorporating the main values and differentiating characteristics of Portuguese wines. The focus is upon raising awareness of the brand internationally,
Portugal has produced wines of distinction for generations. Differences in terroirs and climatic conditions and differences in the art of winemaking have elevated the character of Portuguese Wine. Discover a World of Difference! Is more than just a slogan, it is an attitude and a philosophy that encompasses a new approach to wine appreciation.
Several Portuguese Wine producers were on hand to personally pour their latest wines. What makes Portuguese Wine different from all the rest is evident from the first sip. Wines are made from a plethora of indigenous grape varieties that are unique to Portugal. In addition, winemakers are inspired to the heights of creativity. With more than 250 grape varieties at their disposal, they are free to create wines that have a great deal of diversity and very distinctive personalities.
Vinho Voyage was a terrific opportunity to catch up with old friends whom I’ve met at previous tastings in Chicago, at Lincoln Park’s Cafe Brauer and Venue Six10. Case in point, my good friend Frederico Falcao, President of ViniPortugal-Wines of Portugal. He gave me a personal guided tour of the afternoon’s offerings.
First up was Marcio Ferreira, Export Manager for Casa Ermalinda Freitas, one of Portugal’s premiere brands. The winery was established in 1920 by Leonilde Freitas and is now headed by his great- granddaughter Ermalinda Freitas, the winery’s namesake. Her daughter, Leonor Freitas, also took command and continues the tradition of having a woman in charge of the company.
Setubal is the home of Casa Ermalinda Freitas near the village of Fernando Po. The imposing new winery rises from the sea of vineyards and is visible for miles around the surrounding plain. Managing partner Leonor de Freitas is the visionary behind its imposing facade.
The wines are a refreshing reminder that there is no end to the variety and complexity of the new wines that are coming to a store or restaurant near you. Espumante Branco Bruto is a case in point. Its freshness and finesse make it the perfect start to any afternoon or early evening meal. It excites the palate with bright, fruity taste and beautiful golden color. Fresh, and with a pleasant finish, it’s a perfect way to ease into the meal with some fresh grapes, soft cheeses and clams bathed in olive oil and herbs.
Vinho do Rosario-Rose Ligeiro from the Setubal Peninsula was another beautiful wine with a fruit taste and aroma reminiscent of the ripe, red strawberries that grow wild in the region. Perfectly balanced with just the right amount of acidity and contrasting sugar, this is a great wine to have chilled with a first course of grilled octopus brushed with a bright green herb marinade hot off the coals!
Next was another wine that I’ve come to know over the years from Quinta Do Paral. Poured by winemaker and owner Christel Gaillard, the Reserva Tinto 2021 was awash in subtle vanilla notes and the spicy taste of freshly ground black pepper. Intense dark berry flavors combined with red fruit flavors to caress the palate. Touriga Nacional, the flagship grape of Portugal, and equal blends of Touriga Franca, Petit Verdot and Petite Syrah, made this an expressive wine with attitude to spare!
For more on the Wines of Portugal visit winesofPortugal.com.
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