Joao Portugal Ramos, Vinho Verde DOC (Portugal) Loureiro 2020

 Until I was invited to judge in a competition in Portugal in 2013, I had never tasted a Loureiro wine.  As I noted in my July 2 column that year, titled The High-End Lowdown on Vinho Verde, “It was interesting to see that three of my highest scoring wines were made from a grape called Loureiro.  To this point, the only encounters I have had with this grape was as part of the blend in some Rias Baixas wines from Spain.”  This very affordable wine is a perfect example with its floral, orange blossom, citrus aromas and peachy, orange fruit flavors and lively, crisp acidity.  Pair it with pulled pork tacos or a summer chicken salad.