Last week saw an exceptional turnout of over 80 members of the Algarve Wine Society for a wonderful wine tasting experience at Tribulum Restaurant near Almancil.

A variety of tasty dishes were produced by the talented Irish Chef Jonny Pratt. A sea bass ceviche, home smoked tuna with a veal emulsion and a pork cheek Wellington were accompanied by fine wines from the upper reaches of the Douro River.

Produced by Quinta da Sequeira and presented by the winery’s    Mário Tiago Cardoso and Rui Castro of Wines & Co in Almancil, they were extremely interesting and there was a serious array for tasting.

Starting with a light, crisp rosé, a delicious, tangy, fresh white and a more serious white Reserva, these were followed by three reds that were on the menu. The Quinta da Sequeira Red, the Quinta da Sequeira Reserva and the much-acclaimed Grande Reserva. Then a surprise offering in the shape of a tannin-rich, wonderfully-coloured red yet to be marketed. The latter was extremely well received.

All the wines were of excellent quality and a great representation of their traditional grape heritage.

Dessert was a tonka bean crème brûlée followed by a cheese plate. With these came the grand finale – rare 70- and 80-year-old ports, the ultimate treat and hugely appreciated by members.

The restaurant and the winery both excelled to provide a wonderful afternoon for members. A perfect way to kick start the Algarve Wine Society’s programme for 2022 after all the disappointments of 2020 and 2021.

Next on the Society’s calendar is an overnight visit to the Memmo Baleeira Hotel in Sagres for a presentation of wines by Decante on May 17, and there will be a Midsummer’s Night Gourmet Dinner with wines from Julian Reynolds Winery at Restaurant Florian back in Almancil.

By GAYNOR STAPLETON