This label from the Tejo region never ceases to impress me with the value for money they offer on pretty much every wine they produce. When I wrote a series of articles about foreign grape varietals made in Portugal last year, they stood out for the quality of their Chardonnay (un-oaked by the way) and their Sauvignon Blanc. Both priced at around €5 to €6, they give many considerably more pricey wines a run for their money.
Now they have launched an Alvarinho, quite a novelty for the Tejo region, and again the quality is exceptional when we consider the price of just €5.49 at Apolónia.
It’s surprising how they managed to keep the price so low, considering that this is a relatively small production of around 15,000 bottles compared with 60,000 for the Sauvignon Blanc and 80,000 for the Chardonnay.
In typical Alvarinho style, there are fresh tropical fruit, floral and citric notes on the nose, with good acidity in the mouth balanced with lush fruit flavours. A lovely summer wine.
By Patrick Stuart [email protected]
