Most red wines coming out of Portugal’s Douro valley are solid, masculine Cabernet-style, but here’s a pair plotting a different course.
Romaneira has the feminine, silky, spicy/sweet character of a New-World Pinot. Or a delicate, dry version of Ruby Port. I cannot imagine a more delicious red to start a Winter evening. Especially “˜round five on Sunday. Romaneira is a traditional Port producer.
Symington’s Altano resembles Cabernet (Bordeaux) but in a lighter, bistro style. There’s an invigorating pucker, a dryness, and an invitation to get food on the table. Classic old-fashioned red wine for the table as opposed to the party scene.
QUINTA DE ROMANEIRA 14 Douro “˜R’, Portugal 214288 Vintages $15.95
SYMINGTON 15 Douro “˜Altano’, Portugal 579862 Vintages $13.95
