Contributed
Fresh from their triumphs in London’s prestigious International Wine Challenge 2004, DFJ Vinhos proudly introduced some of their medal winning wines to a packed house of WineMine Club members at the Algarve Sheraton’s Pine Cliffs Golf and Country Club.
With an entry list of around 10,000 wines, the London International Wine Challenge is the largest such event in the world. Top medals are not easily earned from an experienced team of international judges, but DFJ amassed a total of 22 medals, among which were three golds – making them, by far, the most successful of the Portuguese entries.
Under the guidance of their illustrious winemaker, José Neiva, DFJ have a policy of producing quality wines at accessible prices; even their top range of gold medal-winning wines are sold by WineMine at less than 10 euros.
Duarte Carvalho e Silva and Filipa Diniz introduced a range of 12 of DFJ wines from different regions of Portugal. The evening was in two parts: the first, a formal tasting, covered eight wines – the stars of which were undoubtedly the two Gold Medal winning reds, a lovely ripe and deep Alicante Bouschet and a more delicate but rich Trincadeira. Also outstanding were their newly released Alentejo red, Monte Alentejano 2003, and their Vega 2001 red Douro. This was followed by a quite excellent four course dinner with each course accompanied by different DFJ wines. Among these were an interesting and unusual blend of Alvarinho and Chardonnay and a beautifully balanced Tinta Roriz and Merlot blend.
DFJ wines are stocked by WineMine in Silves and are priced at between four and 10 euros. If you would like to enjoy an informative and convivial evening like this, access to a wide range of carefully selected wines, or would like more information about the club, call WineMine on 282 441 036.
