Most Vinho Verde wines we see in the US are light-bodied, simple and refreshing whites. The Portal da Calçada Vinho Verde is much more than that. The Alvarinho is the most noted Vinho Verde grape and offers a bright, citrusy style. The Loureiro grape, while less known, provides richness, depth and complexity and comprises the majority of this Vinho Verde blend along with 30% Alvarinho. The aromas of the Portal da Calçada 2023 Vinho Verde are forward and attractive with lovely floral tones followed by a range of lemon, grapefruit, pear, and apple fruits. The flavors are pure and lively, as good Vinho Verde should be, but with more depth and interest than most. The green apple and lemon fruit elements are underlain by a surprisingly rich texture plus floral, herb and spice tones. It is a lovely and refreshing white.
91 Wayne Belding
Portal da Calçada, Vinho Verde (Portugal) 2023 (International Vines)
By Wayne Belding
