Variety: Antao Vaz; Roupeiro; Perrum
Region: Alentejano, Portugal
Cost: $12 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes: Crystal clear citric colour. Aromas of delicate fresh white stone fruits and lemon notes. Firm, intense, well-balanced with a long aromatic finish.
My Review:Â I really am enjoying these Antao Vaz blends; the other grapes (of which I’m also pretty unfamiliar) are doing a great job of balancing the Antao Vaz into some pretty great wines at great values. Keep it up Portugal.
In the glass the Monte Velho was a golden yellow color, while on the nose I picked up aromas of banana, pineapple, and citrus with just a touch of nutmeg. On the palate the wine showed lemon, lime, and gooseberry. The wine sorta coated the mouth, but not in a bad way; it was just different and unexpected given the tart citrus flavors of the wine.
I tried the wine by itself, but I think some herb crusted chicken or pork would be a good pairing; something to balance the citrus notes.
Overall I enjoyed the wine, and while it wasn’t my favourite of the four I got to try (that one’s coming up tomorrow), it wasn’t something I regretted, and it’s a good value.
Editor’s Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review.
