LCBO Vintages department has just offered three Portuguese reds with distinct regional characteristics. Something that’s getting rare in this era of wines to please popular taste. Each of my recommendations is the “˜real thing’ ““ delivering an insight into one of the country’s principal red wine regions. At a very reasonable price ““ the Portuguese way. Here’s the first recommendation. Next one tomorrow! Third one on Monday!
ARE YOU READY FOR RUSTIC?
The Bairrada region, and its eastern extension, Beyra Interior, are my new favourites for their traditional, rustic style reds. It’s as if they have moved the clock back fifty years. Portugal’s innovative winemakers are also in love with these regions as they see the potential for something unique.
This Bairrada wine is strictly for fans of light/medium-bodied reds with a good hit of tartness. It refreshes, and kick-starts the palate. Think of it as adding something to everyday meals ““ a go-to, mid-week red when you want to elevate supper, without feeling you’re creating another wine evening. The Euro thing where the wine is just part of the table. For what it’s worth, this wine’s earthy tartness made me think of Ontario Gamay.
Lightly chill.
BEYRA INTERIOR 17 Red, Vinhos de Altitude, Rui Roboredo Madeira, Portugal 408120 Vintages $13.95
P.S. My good friend John Maxwell sent this photo in response to my article on wine drinking in Portugal. He’s a fan of the Pingo Doce wines I recommended ““ especially the five litre boxes, which convert to about a dollar (Canadian) per bottle.
“The savings are considerable over the bottle price, however, a certain increase in consumption tends to wipe that out.”
In case you missed it, read my post here.
