Earlier this year I wrote about how well the Viognier grape has been performing here in the Algarve, highlighting a few of the best producers (Quinta dos Vales, Quinta do Francês and Adega do Cantor).
And now we have another fine example on the market, produced by Paxá wines, whose vineyards are located between Lagoa and Silves.
This is quite different in style from any of the others however; a big full-bodied “gastronomic” white, ideal for pairing with white meats and strong cheeses.
This 2013, the producer’s first production of Viognier as a varietal, is oak-fermented and aged for nine months on the lees, resulting in a deep yellow colour and intense bouquet of white fruits, honey and spices.
In the mouth, the wine is rich and fresh, with good acidity, showing interesting potential for bottle ageing. Around €10 in supermarkets.
By PATRICK STUART [email protected]
