Don’t overlook Portugal in your search for tasty white wine that rings the value buzzer. You may not be familiar with the varieties, but this blend hits the button again and again with a viscous midpalate and a little chalky grip that gives the finish good push. Nectarine, wintergreen and nutmeg get things going, and grapefruit rises up in the finish. It’s very refreshing, and has the stuffing to accompany a range of chicken or fish preps. Fermented in 30% new French oak, then aged 6 months, part in stainless steel and part in new American and French barrels on fine lees. Contains Antao Vaz, Arinto, Roupeiro and small amounts of other white grapes.
Esporão, Alentejo (Portugal) 2020
By Rich Cook