As any regular reader of this column knows, I am a big fan of the wines currently being produced in the Lisbon coast region, to the north of the capital.
They seem to stand out for their originality whilst the proximity of many vineyards to the open Atlantic of Portugal’s west coast lends a fresh and mineral character to the wines.
Quinta do Pinto is a long established producer that has become best known for wines blended from foreign varieties, but this “Estate Collection” white is an unusual blend made from two Portuguese grapes (Arinto and Antão Vaz) with Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc.
Fermented on the lees in cement vats, this is a wine of considerable complexity with tropical fruit notes on the nose, a creamy texture and a clean dry finish. Good value at around €10.
By PATRICK STUART [email protected]
