Portuguese white wines are most often made from indigenous grape varieties. Although the grapes may be unfamiliar, these traditional blends offer amazing character and complexity at a very friendly price. The 2020 Pretexto Dão Branco is a perfect example of the value to be found. Blended from Encruzado and Bical grapes, the Pretexto offers an enticing bouquet with a zesty combination of lemon, pear and green apple fruits backed by floral, almond and spice hints. On the palate, its juicy pear and apple fruits are enhanced by its nutty and spicy complexity plus a rich texture and vibrantly clean finish. Dão whites can cellar well and the Pretexto Dão will provide fine enjoyment for another 2 to 3 years.
Textura, Dão DOC (Beiras, Portugal) 2020
By Wayne Belding