Portuguese Wines

Saturday, June 9th
with special guest Max Kast
4:30 - 7:00

The history of Portuguese wine goes back some 4,000 years to the ancient Phoenicians, seafarers who established colonies across the Mediterranean and planted vines along the way.  Yet much of the world is only now discovering the dry wines of Portugal, which have been through revolutionary changes in the past several decades. The best Portuguese wines are emerging in world markets as carefully crafted and delicious wines, typically at tremendous value for the quality.  Most casual wine drinkers may only know of the classic fortified wines of Portugal, the Ports and Madeiras.  While these are deservedly renowned wines, they overshadow some beautiful dry wines.  Portuguese table wine was reserved for years almost entirely for the locals. Physically isolated from most of Europe and its wine culture, Portugal developed wines its own way, using its more than 300 native grapes in favor of trendier international varieties.  We will take a small tour of some of these beautiful dry wines this weekend, as well as delving into the super refreshing Vinho Verde, a classic white wine with just a touch of carbonation.  We will wrap up the tasting with a beautiful example of a White Port, perhaps the least known of the famous Portuguese fortified wines.  We will be joined by our local representative of Broadbent Selections, Max Kast, who will lead us through the selections with his usual knowledge and passion for the wines.

Broadbent Vinho Verde
Loureiro, Trajadura, & Pedernã
Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal, NV

Crasto White
Rabigato, Viosinho, & Gouveio
Douro DOC, Portugal, 2017

Casa Ferreirinha 'Vinha Grande' Rosé
Touriga Nacional
Douro DOC, Portugal, 2016

Crasto Superior
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, & Sousão
Douro DOC, Portugal, 2015

Ferreira 'Dona Antonia' Reserva Branco
Malvasia Fina, Códega, Viosinho, Rabigato, & Arinto
Portugal, NV