Portuguese Red Wines – Episode #476

June 2, 2008

Gary rants and raves about Portugal as the next coming so lets see what these wines have to offer.

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Comments on this episode(204) Leave a comment ›

“yah!…” by DDB
“You are nuts! The Anfora reminds of an over alcoholic Shiraz. The bitt…” by Askold Shegedyn
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Tinto Da AnforaOther Portuguese Red Wine
2005 Bafarela RedOther Portuguese Red Wine
2007 Sanguinhal CerejeirasOther Portuguese Red Wine

Links mentioned in todays episode.

204 Responses

June 2, 2008

GrapeStuff
1
June 2, 2008

chalz
2 is too much
June 2, 2008

Anthony L.
Very cool Portugeuse Wines.
June 2, 2008

Matti
Nice show! I’m getting a wristband!
June 2, 2008

bronsont
Wines were good, Hoot Owl shirt not so much
June 2, 2008

hingrman
Nice and early today

Thanks Gary
June 2, 2008

ChefD
top 10
June 2, 2008

Brian
I personally don’t like red wine, but then never had any red wine from portugual…so I have listened to you on a bunch of stuff….I bought a bottle of Pinot Gris cause of you..I havent opened it yet..dont want to have the sake and the Riesling opened and then open something else…cant wait to try that…Anyway, I will keep an eye out for that one you recommened…gotta go get a notebook now.
June 2, 2008

Portland Guy
If you don’t like red wine, what are you doing here? Good episode GV.
June 2, 2008

TeeKay
Hi Gary,

I will try to get some Portuguese wines. Thank you for the episode.
June 2, 2008

McAdamSandiwch
I’m ordering two books, for two separate people. Hope I can get each of them a wristband..

Great episode. I’ll pick up a Portugese Red this week and give it a try.
June 2, 2008

TommyBoBo of WI
1977 Fonseca and 1985 Grahams,,, that RED enough for ya???!

Ok,, so I haven’t had a dry red yet…. will search it out.
tks for the shows… they are appreciated every day.
June 2, 2008

I-lurk
okay okay… I promise I promise…. that I’ll try a Portugese Red
June 2, 2008

C-Fiddy
As a self-proclaimed member of the Vayner-Nation Demo, I just have to say We love you right back GV!
June 2, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
QOTD — can’t say as I have a favorite, but I agree that the Portugese table wines are getting better
June 2, 2008

Jaybird
QOTD: I’m already on it…. Like white on rice, and stink on “Pig Crap”
June 2, 2008

MagnumGourmet
Top 20 – Woo Hoo!
June 2, 2008

NJ Chianti Dan
QOTD: a great $7 Portugal wine that i got @ the Big-Kick A** Wine Library event a few months back (recommened by Ian) Quintado- ENCONTRO – Bairrada – red wine – 2004
June 2, 2008

Smahlatz
Haven’t tried any portugese wines – checking out the options now
Hey I saw winedirect here in the UK have got you linked up – cool, it’s a great site (though they haven’t got much portugese wine)
June 2, 2008

dcseven
Nice selection; we’re hoping to visit Douro this fall.
June 2, 2008

EternalChild
Cross my heart and hope to die! I cannot wait to sick the Cerejeiras on my White wine loving girlfriend. Nothing but love all around.
June 2, 2008

RichG
I will have to give them a try Gary. Thanks for the review.

QOTD: can’t think of one.
June 2, 2008

Derek F.
QOTD: I really love Carm Reserva, very nice stuff.
June 2, 2008

KVolk
QOTD: I promise….
June 2, 2008

PDXWineGuy
QOTD: I love my Port.. in fact Port was my entry into the wine world… I just need to find some good half bottles since it is hard to drink a whole one before it starts turning.
June 2, 2008

KyBoy
I’ve never had a Portuguese wine, however, that will all change in September when I visit there. It’s great to see some reviews on the regions so I have an idea on what to look for.
June 2, 2008

Rebs
Oh, you so just flipped us off!!

Hey, tried one of the red Zins you recommended last week. Cherry bomb in my mouth (which makes me think of a really good Spoon song)! Loved it!

By the way, it absolutely sucks living in Pennsylvania with our “liquor control board”. It’s ridiculous. I won’t even get started on why it’s so horrendous because I’ll end up writing a novel in your comment area.

Grace & peace, my friend!
June 2, 2008

purplejuicebruce
Will have to hunt one down.
June 2, 2008

JudeMurphy
$100 for a shout out?
Gary- I’ll do the same, for a charity of your choice- if you publicly apologize for being so ignorant all this time (especially back in episode 292) and tell the Vayniacs that foie gras is NOT COOL!!!
That’s still really annoying me!
The first major step in changing the wine world: getting rid of the pretentiousness which both leads people to support such horrific things as foie gras, and scares people away from wine who think it’s just for “snobs”!
Think about it!
June 2, 2008

Anthony
I tried the J.P. Red from Portugal a few weeks ago. Found it locally for under $5 USD and it was actually surprisingly delicious. It had less expensive packaging (no punt) and was lighter in ABV but had amazing fresh fruit and light easy drinking character. I thank you for turning me on to Portugal, it truly seems to be an amazing area for QPR!
June 2, 2008

NJ-Vettester
QOTD: So far it would be the Carm Douro 2005
June 2, 2008

Kev and Ams
Great episode.
June 2, 2008

Taylor
Good QPR episode havent seen one in a while so good one to come back on.
QOTD the Black Pig Duero is so far my favorite Portuguese wine
June 2, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
When you got worked up I got a little spritz. Man that is some fervor. Thanks for the new recommendation. My local store had 3 bottles. Went in and bought them already. Will buy more of the Sanguinhal Cerejerais especially if you carry it regularly. Great wine. I will leave a review on Amazon as I just finished reading it.
June 2, 2008

Little Jonny H
I love the bargain bin, baby! There’s nothing better than when I can afford all of the wines on the show, even after shipping!

QOTD: Berco Do Infante Tinto. Ridiculous, just ridiculous for $7!!!
June 2, 2008

John
QOTD – the only Portuguese red I’ve tried is 2001 Cistus Douro. Had it with some steak, and it was quite good. A bit bitter, but fairly smooth. I’m a fan of the vinho verdes from Portugal, and have been trying some more Portuguese wines around here lately.
June 2, 2008

Kev and Ams
Some people that leave comments are big babies. Waaaaah… =(
June 2, 2008

Deano
Gary great episode. I really want to get a hold of that last wine.

QOTD:
-I Promise

P.S. I am not a lurker
June 2, 2008

SJR
my closest brush with Portuguese red wine was some Madeira Port several years ago…

also had the best ever sangria in a Portuguese restaurant in the town square in Sonoma, it was classy and a bit pricey so I expect they must have used wine from the old country.
June 2, 2008

chadlp
You talked me into it Gary. I will promise to expand and try a portugese red.
June 2, 2008

Rossodio
QOTD: The 2003 Quinta de Ventozelo Touriga Nacional Douro… Wine Spectator was totally off with their 85 point rating — this is a 90-pointer in my mind, and has an awesome weight and finish while still being refreshing. Try it if you can get ahold of some!
June 2, 2008

James
I think I’ve had Portuguese wines in the past… but I’m going to out and actively search for some thunder tonight. Obrigado!
June 2, 2008

lurker-de
QOTD – CARM Tinto – recommended by you in one of the past episodes.
June 2, 2008

chenin
Unfortunately I only had one, Niepoort’s Fabelhaft and I thought it was overhyped and not all that great.
June 2, 2008

Justin
QOTD: Never tried a Portugese red, but I promise I will check the selection at the wine store next time I go and hopefully walk out the door with one to try.

On a side note, I have tried several Portugese whites and have liked all of them. I think Vinho Verde is a very under appreciated grape.
June 2, 2008

sharon
Thanks for the show on Portuguese wine…what a deal! Can’t wait to find these guys.
qotd: I don’t remember the names of the wines from Portugal I’ve tried but I do remember they were interesting.
June 2, 2008

Tony V.
QOTD: You inspired me to break out the Crasto Douro ‘06 red while i was watching. I dug it. Btw, nice “hooters”
June 2, 2008

maggiej
Had some decent Portugese wine (besides port)…can’t remember the name

On a serious note, you mentioned how low the wages must be for workers in Portugal. Is there any movement toward fair trade kind of status for wine makers who treat there workers well? I would pay more for such wine. A 17 year old pregnant migrant worker died yesterday here in california from exposure while working in a vineyard.
June 2, 2008

RichE
GV, Great Show……….AGAIN

I love it, Keep bringing us these new wines and terrior’s to try.

QOTD: I have never had a Portugal wines, But order a few tonight.
June 2, 2008

bigtubb
I am ordering a bottle of the Anfora right now.
June 2, 2008

Joe Marques
Gary,
Thanks for reviewing Portuguese wines
Please learn to pronounce the labels
Alentejano is pronounced “A-Lint-John-o” not “Alente-Hano”
The J is pronounced like a J not like an H
The same with Cerejeiras (Which means Cherry Trees)
Pronounced “Sera-Jaytas”
Douro is Doughro
Hope this helps
Thanks
June 2, 2008

Kristen
QOTD: I’ve had some Portuguese reds, but nothing that’s stood out. Though I’ve had a lot of good vinho verde and sparkling wine from Portugal, so I definitely believe there’s QPR for the reds!
June 2, 2008

Robert Howells
2005 Periquita from Portugal. This wine is 10 bones in Canada(so 3 bones in US). It brings serious thunder, a wondewrful QPR.
June 2, 2008

Sonoma M@
Great show Gary. I was in Portugal a few years ago and had a great White Port, amazing! It’s about time they get recognized for more than just their namesake. GO DOURO! YEAH PORTUGAL!
June 2, 2008

PaVo
QOTD: I have a Douro that I’m keeping and dreaming about. I had a 2005 Quinta do Crasto Reserva Old Vines at dinner in Vancouver whilst visiting my girlfriend a few weeks ago that was simply amazing.

Please come to Chicago. I know twitter says you are but book tour does not!
June 2, 2008

elMattador
awesome show! We got the Cerejeiras at our store about a month ago after we had it at our distributors tasting. I couldnt believe it was 5.99 retail. Been selling the crap out of it ever since.

QOTD its definatly the Cerejeiras. Price point and the ommmph for that price point makes it the best in a long time!
June 2, 2008

Holmes
QOTD; I PROMISE!!!! You crazy guy!

P.S. I am a lurker and it feels good……
June 2, 2008

aronowm2
QOTD: Quinta do Carmo 2001 vintage. one of the best wines I have ever had period.
June 2, 2008

Phil G
QOTD – I have had a bunch of Portuguese wines, but don’t think ever more than one of each bottle. I remember having some GREAT reds while in Lisbon, but don’t remember the names…
June 2, 2008

DirtWineKen
Bestial! Portugal was my all time favorite wine vacation. My current favorite is Vale Meao from the Douro; and the Meandro second wine is a great value as well.
June 2, 2008

Andy & Edie
The only Portugese wine we’ve had is Port, and we love it with some yummy cheese! We will certainly seek some out if there’s any to be had in Billings, MT. Great show, yet again!
June 2, 2008

Ryan W
QOTD – I am buying one today. By the way I tried a Spanish Rioja Rose over the weekend. Not bad, and definitely not what I was thinking.

Ryan
June 2, 2008

paul
There are many. But if I had a real choice, it would be a vintage Port. Say 1963 or some such.

Other than that, I currently have several made by Esporao. Good house, good buys (but not 6 bones, unfortunately).
June 2, 2008

JHanck
QOTD: Barco Negro 2005, a surprise buy at Costco…
June 2, 2008

joeshmo
the end of today show was awsome, intense, and energetic. great show today.
QOTD: ive never had a portugese wine, but im going out as soon as i finish writing this and get the Sanguinhal Cerejeiras. ive been really exploring the red wine world here lately, and i was just thinking that its getting good and hot and now im looking for something a little on the light side for the summer heat. THANK YOU MY VAYNERCHUK this show was just what i was looking for. PEACE OUT SKILLETS IM OUT TO GET A WINE !
June 2, 2008

Collin
QotD – Periquita and the Periquita Reserve. About $11 in Tennessee.
June 2, 2008

manonthemoon
Good show, I have heard so much about Douro, but have yet to check it out. That will end next time I am out wine shopping.
June 2, 2008

Tony
Gary, I’ve got my shopping list and I put the Sanguinhal Cerejeiras at the top…$6…can’t go wrong with that! Love the show…keep up the good work.
June 2, 2008

Juicy Jesse
QOTD: Current favorite from Portugal: 2005 Altano Douro AND the ‘05 Altano Douro Reserva. Comes from the Symingon Family Estates holdings. Fabulous wine, and the ‘05 is drinking great, right now!!
June 2, 2008

Pete G
Great Show! I needed a Portugese kick in the ass to remind me to drink more of these reds. They really are great price-to-quality ratio wines.

QOTD: Vintage Port. I know its old school but still the best dessert wine around
June 2, 2008

Jim in Atlanta
Thanks for exposing us to wines from Portugal. QOTD – I have been to Portugal twice in the past 6 years on vacation and found the wines to be very good. But I can’t remember favorite one. Why are you wearing a Tripadvisor shirt?
June 2, 2008

Dominus
QOTD: Ive had many wines from Douro but off the top of my head I can’t remember any specific names and yes, I promise, to find some more. Im assuming the 6 buck will be sold out before I order.

I love the question to Mott, “Why?”

I’ve read the book from front to cover, bought some of the featured wines, and I can say it is a very informative read. I can see you on WLTV reviewing each and every wine. Fun, fun, fun.

Cheers
June 2, 2008

M
QOTD: I’ve had at least 4-5 reds from Portugal in the past 3 years. Two were in the PAZZZ category and the others were pretty good. Can’t remember what they were exactly, only sort of kind of know their varietals. I had one decent white, an Alvarinho with “a little frizzante action”. It wasn’t bad, pleasant.

Saturday I had my first Greco di Tufo that I bought after show #449. Liked it. Bought more today.
June 2, 2008

sam
Thank you for doing a show on Portuguese wines. I really have been enjoying this part of the world for many reasons. They stay true to the terroir and really are producing good wines for cheap. Marques de Marialva is one of the wines I’ve enjoyed from Portugal lately. Great job!
June 2, 2008

Marc
QOTD: Haven’t had any that I was excited about..but because of your suggestion I’ll try some more! Maybe I’ll find some in China this week!

GV…China Wine Tours made it on CNBC last Friday!! Check the video!
June 2, 2008

Billyd
I will be ording the 6 bone wine from WL right now and will enjoy asap.. great episode.
June 2, 2008

Keith
I’ve had several enjoyable, value driven wines from Spain, Chile, Argentina, but not Portugal…WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME? Gotta get with the program…
June 2, 2008

Pastafari Pirate
QOTD: Quinta do Encontro. Rolls in at about $6. #36871 at WineLibrary.
June 2, 2008

brent
QOTD: Niepoort Vertente was the most recent that I really enjoyed.
June 2, 2008

pete c
Favorite Portuguese wine currently is Cortes De Cima Alentejo. Very good red wine at a very fair price.
June 2, 2008

pawncop
What a great episode.

QOTD – Barco Negro Red Douro Wine $7.99 at Costco, liked it so much I went back a bought 3 more bottles.
June 2, 2008

Sharon
You crack me up! Such great energy. Looks like I have 1 2004 Quinta de S. Francisco Ã“bidos in my ‘cellar’ which I bought at a tasting. It was about 10 bucks and I must have liked it! I have your book now – your personality really shines through. Just started reading it – your descriptions are very vivid. Wow, the 6 dollar wine sounded great – why it’s so great to taste before buying, as one would assume it was plonk just considering the price point alone.
June 2, 2008

Aaron S.
Thank you for picking on a juicer besides Barry.

RE: stolen bases, check out Jacoby Ellsbury… kid got 6 steals over two games… crazy!

BTW, Admiral Wines imports TISHBI ESTATE WINERY WINES FROM ISRAEL!!!! Just thought I’d let you know ::wink wink nudge nudge::

QOTD: I promise… starting 3/31/2009
June 2, 2008

laposte
QOTD:
1977 Dow’s Vintage Porto…it’s red and from Portugal.
June 2, 2008

Yvette W
Great show! Haven’t had a Portugal red, but have had the Dorado, which is pretty good. Will soon to start trying some Portugal reds. I’ve had some Bordeaux reds, and they are very strong on the pallet, so I’m glad that you’ve introduced some “silky” reds that can help me to transition into the bigger Bordeaux reds.

As always, thanks for doing this show for us!
June 2, 2008

Donna Marie
QOTD: Incognito. Purchased it in the Ironbound District in Newark. Don’t remember the vintage. Was in the $20 range. Haven’t noticed it in any wine stores in NJ/NY except for that Ferry St. Wine Shop in Newark and that was in 2003.
June 2, 2008

Newman
Thunder-ful show GV!

QOTD: I’ve only tried a handful of them, and the one I remember liking most was the Alianca Vista Tinta Roriz.
June 2, 2008

J Crazy
Need to drink more wines from Portugal. Can’t speak to my favorite now so I’ll order some this week.

Lovin’ how a cheap wine can bring thunder and it’s interesting how many people just don’t buy wines under a certain price point. I have been guilty of thinking there aren’t many thunderific wines at around 6 or 7 bucks but here’s to expanding our palates and opening our minds.
June 2, 2008

elliottf
Thank you so much for the shout out, Gary!

QOTD: Can’t think of my favorite Portuguese wine, but we’ve definitely had some great ones!

Keep it up Gary!
June 2, 2008

Robin C
QOTD: I don’t believe I’ve ever had a Portuguese wine. But I’ve had two Spanish wines recently that were fabulous: Vina Sastre (tempranillo) 2005 from the Ribera del Duero in Spain – $19.99 and Can Blau 2006(carignane, syrah, and grenache)- $15.00, and both of them were memorable.
I am reading the book and I’m loving it. The format is so clear and the writing is fun and informative. I like the little boxed in blurbs and though I can’t find most of the wines where I live I’m finding the descriptions interesting enough to keep reading.
June 2, 2008

mwhiddon
Hope you survived Houston and managed to stay somewhat cool. I grew up in The Woodlands and my parents still live there – I heard from my mom that the heat index was 106 today. Enjoy Austin tomorrow – it is my second favorite city (after Seattle, where I now live). If you have a chance eat some texmex for me (I recommend Chuy’s or Trudy’s).
QOTD: I will certainly be picking one (or more) up on the way home tomorrow!
June 2, 2008

JayZee
QOTD: Vale de Meao Douro red wine
June 3, 2008

jason carey
Domini 2003 Duero was excellent
June 3, 2008

Alex
It’s great to see a show on Portuguese wines. I’ve been talking about them for many years now. My favorite is EA red and Quinta do Vale Meao…an amazing wine!
June 3, 2008

Julia L.
I PROMISE TO GET A PORTUGESE RED!!!!I cant wait for you to be in Austin tommorow, last time you were here my in-laws and my hubby got to hang with you and i was out of town, not this time!!! Cant wait And i am sooo in the “I love white wine and i want to get into reds” crowd and im gonna get that Cerejeiras!
June 3, 2008

E
That’s encouraging, I had the ‘05 Cerejeiras and found it irredeemably nasty. However, the Adriano Ramos Pinto and So Touriga were actually very nice, and I’m looking forward to getting to know CARM and Luis Pato better.
June 3, 2008

Kezza
QOTD: No favorite Portugese wine yet, but I’m definitely workin on expanding the PAL … drinking the Fontaleoni Vernaccia as we speak! AND I tried a greco di tufo the other night at a restaurant. Forget which one though. Doh! All I remember is lemon and lime all over the place! YUM. Thanks for changing my wine world!

PS – You gotta get some Vaynerchick shirts!!

PPS – I think this might be my 5th post. Does that qualify me as no longer a lurker??
June 3, 2008

Oklahoma Michael
QOTD- 1963 Graham’s. Still reminds me of a cold night in front of the fire with Allison in Seattle. Good memories
June 3, 2008

Eric Gardner
GV? Is that a trip advisor shirt? Whatever it is, it’s cool. Love wine from Portugal, not only cheap but they have unique and varied tastes. It seems like the growers are creating their own style and not copying any other region. They’re true Vayniacs. You picked three wines, all good and all different. I bet the one you passed on was also quite good. If it was compared with any other 10 dollar wine, it would have got a big thumbs up.

Been drinking a lot of wine from Portugal…

2006 Ãlvaro Castro, DÃ£o. Loved it!
2006 Quinta do Crasto “Crasto” Douro also loved it!

These are 12 dollar wines that have a very satisfying structure and complexity. The terrior is very Portugal, so you are definitely tasting something that is not mass produced or trying to copy another region. Portuguese wines taste like Portuguese wines, so if you are looking for a copy of your favorite Rhone or Sonoma, you will be disappointed
June 3, 2008

ray-ray
Nice Show GV,

I can honestly say that I have never tried a Portuguese Wine…But I PROMISE to search one out and expand the Pal.
June 3, 2008

victor
QOTD “link it up…”
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=584822&id=579208589
June 3, 2008

BobM
QOTD- If you go beyond table wines, my favorite was a 1963 Sandeman Port. Just gorgeous flavors,finish a mile long.

Thanks to your encouragement, I’m starting to experiment with some table wines now, but I haven’t found anything memorable yet.
June 3, 2008

Smahlatz
In reply to Eternal Child’s message (see page one of messages)
“Cross my heart and hope to die! I cannot wait to sick the Cerejeiras on my White wine loving girlfriend. Nothing but love all around.”

LOL – you’re going to do what on you girlfriend? I don’t think she’ll appreciate it, and it certainly won’t get her to like reds
June 3, 2008

Pardus
I have had a few Portuguese wines in the past, but I have not seen many here in Serbia. I will look around a bit and see what I can find.
June 3, 2008

Jared Pondelik
Great show gary and nice shirt! I see since your accident you have been keeping it a little more casual. Have fun at your book signings.
June 3, 2008

Barbara
Favorite Portugese wine….IRREVERENTE 04!!!
Does that ring a bell Gary? U have to get your hands on this! In fact it’s one of my all time favorite wines of all times.
About $14 and worth every penny!
June 3, 2008

Kirk (aka: slave2thevine)
QOTD: My favorite all time Portuguese red wine was the 1966 Graham’s Port. However, if you are asking about still red wines I’d say my favorite producer is Quinta do Crasto Reserva Old Vines. For an affordable red ($6-7)I’d say Quinta Bons Ventos.
June 3, 2008

italianwinelover
Never had a Portuguese wine so I will have to seek one out!! Nice price points!
June 3, 2008

Andrew
QOTD: Sogrape Vila Regia Reserve 2002, for CDN$12 (the non-reserve Vila Regia 2004 is far too young and harsh; not worth saving $3 compared to the reserve). Has gone well with lamb sausage, grilled rib steak, and most recently homemade burgers with a bit of ground bacon added to the beef.
June 3, 2008

Irina
I’ll not write about Porto – it is another story.
I like red portuguese wines, but the best (till now) is white – Esporao White 2006 Reserva.
June 3, 2008

Adam J
Amen gary! Gotta love thunder like that. Qotd: While I have had a few portugese red wines in the past, I havent had enough to name a favorite. Recently I had the Novus 2007 Douro red-12 bones. My pal loved it and it seems it might even have the guts to age a little while. Thanks for the show!
June 3, 2008

Wednesday
JP Tinto – fruity red under $10, great house red
June 3, 2008

Sichuan Peppercorn
QOTD: Quinta De La Rosa Douro red blend

And I just bought a Quinta de Roques last weekend. Working on expanding my Portuguese palate.
June 3, 2008

Alvaro
Great show as always Gary. Question: i do not know if it was on purpose or not but I could hear from the recording of the show music in the background. to tell you the truth it was kind of annoying.

Otherwise excellent show. I will look for Portuguese wines in my local wine store.
June 3, 2008

Omallley
QOTD – 2005 Carm. Delicious.
June 3, 2008

Franklin Adams
LURKER!

i’ve been watching for a couple of years, but i have never left a comment. You’ve finally beaten me down!

Question of the Day answer:

CARM 05 Duoro is my favorite Portuguese wine. At $12 it sings.

I hope that you come to DC for your bookie book tour.

Regards,

F
June 3, 2008

Mikey B
great show! qotd: berco do infante – under 6 bones but brings teh thunder! thanks for ordering more!!
June 3, 2008

Jay
Among the best from Portugal I’ve had of late was the 2003 Casal de Loivos, though the2004 Niepoort “Vertente” was wonderful as well. We will be hosting a second tasting of Portugal’s efforts this weekend, so I may soon have others to add.
June 3, 2008

Oxana
I haven’t found yet my favorite Portugese red (if we are talking about classics). But once I had a chance to try Vino Verde from Portugal made of red varieties. It was very interesting, light and refreshing. This I can definitely call a summer red wine.
June 3, 2008

Jeremy
I got excited to try a Portuguese red and ran out to the store right after watching the episode. Unfortunately I went to two of the biggest specialty wine stores here in Dallas and they didn’t have any! I’ll have to keep my eyes open. Great show!
June 3, 2008

VinoVixen
Love the show and LOVE Portuguese wines! They are hedonistic! Lots of cocoa…just amazing wines for the price.

QOTD: 2004 Nieoport Duoro Blend & 2005 Quinta do Crasto Reserva
June 3, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: I have had several Portuguese reds and can’t say that I have a favorite. None have wowed me, but I will say I think they’ve all been under $10 (maybe even under $9) so while I haven’t been wowed, the QPR can’t be beat.

I would have loved to have bought several bottles of the Sanguinhal Cerejeiras, but it looks like watching this the following morning doesn’t get me any from the WL stock. Nice sell out though.
June 3, 2008

Norwegian lurker (not anymore)
Gary,

thanks for a great episode. My favorite portuguese red is JoÃ£o Pato 05. I see you have it in your store for $ 10. In Norway this wine costs $ 26. I recommend you to check it out. His father Luis also makes awesome reds.

Thank you,

Jon
June 3, 2008

alfredhayes
QOTD: It’s called Port. Warre’s Otima. $22/bottle it isn’t LBV, or a vintage but it IS good.
June 3, 2008

david o
as a devoted lurker i will try port. wine,oh yaa
June 3, 2008

Marz
DUDE! Photon! That’s where Marz was born, except I spelt it Mars back then.
June 3, 2008

Lisa
I am so excited that you are trying Portuguese wines!!!! YAAAAAY!!

QOTD: DEFESA, very very delicious at about $15/bottle. and CARM…wonderful finish!

p.s. Unlike the Spanish, portuguese sounds out the “j” in Alentejano.
June 3, 2008

Snarf
QOTD: I have and have consumed many Portuguese wines, but my favorite Portuguese red still wine is Herdade do Esporao Reserva. It rolls in about at about 13 to 17 US BONES here in Southeast New England (depending where you can find it). It has the ability to taste similar to an aged Bordeaux in some vintages, but rarely disappoints!
June 3, 2008

Zach M.
I can’t remember the name but it was a tempranillo. Definitely going to go look for one of these wines, being apart of the ckc that anfora is looking like a major buy.
June 3, 2008

DON D
QOTD:VALE DO BOMFIM 2004 DOURO RESERVA, FROM THE HOUSE OF DOW.
June 3, 2008

Sam Paes
Man, your portuguese sucks….LOL!!!
That’s why I’m gonna write in portuguese. LOL again!!!!

Aqui no Brasil nÃ³s temos um acesso incrÃvel aos vinhos de Portugal, especialmente porque temos uma moeda local muito forte e porque falamos a mesma lingua, o que nos favorece em termos de negociaÃ§Ã£o.

POrtugal Ã© um paÃs enologicamente interessante, pois Ã© provalvemente o paÃs que possui a maior quantidade de uvas autÃ³ctones do mundo. Isso permite que eles tenham vinhos muito interessantes.

QOTD: o melhor vinho portugues que jÃ¡ bebi foi o PERA MANCA 1998, um vinho que tem muita histÃ³ria e tradiÃ§Ã£o, esse vinho veio com Pedro Alvares Cabral nas caravelas em 1500. TambÃ©m gosto do Barca Velha, Quinta dos Carvalhais, Cartuxa, etc…

excelente show Gary, continue a surpreender-se com os vinhos de portugal.
June 3, 2008

Slats
QOTD: Never had and sadly can’t promise to try any this week. I’m judging beer this week (like 40 beers a day, yikes) and the last thing I need is more alcohol to drink.
June 3, 2008

seabop
Fonseca ‘66 Porto
June 3, 2008

Karl Laczko
And a big shout out from the U.K. back to you Tell me more about this proposed trip to this hallowed land (& remember life doesn’t stop at London)!

QOTD – There is still a lack of easy-to-get Portuguese vinho around me, the best one I’ve had in the past year was a DfJ 2004 Touriga (Touriga Nacional & Touriga Franca), a $12 Vinho Regional Estremadura that I put in the 87 range. Now obviously if we include Port or Madeira into the equation then the scores change!
June 3, 2008

Marco Castro
Thank you!
June 3, 2008

Bernardo M.
Sam Paes,

I don’t get it when you say in Brazil we have a very strong currency, when it is a lot weaker than even the US dollar(1 dollar is 1,62 reais), although it has been getting stronger. And that wouldn’t be a favor only for portuguese wines, but for all foreign wines.
I agree with you that we have a good access to portuguese wines, and in part that is because we speak the same language, but our currency surely isn’t a factor.

QOTD: Quinta do Vale MeÃ£o 2004, the Quinta do Crasto Touriga Nacional is one of my favorites too.
June 3, 2008

Chippewamike
QOTD: Nada. . . promise to expand this week. . .while watching the Wings take the Cup Wednesday
June 3, 2008

Kevin C
QOTD: My favorite Portugese wine is the one I’m drinking now (first in a long time). At â‚¬7.69 from the Del Haize in Brussels it is a steal. Its called Quinta Das Maias and its a 2005 DAO. There’s a lot of stuff in Portuguese on the lable that I don’t understand, but thanks to you Gary I recognize the cÃ©page: Jaen, Touriga Nacional, Tinto Amarela. The most difficult wine I’ve ever had to describe. Something in the midpalate that just haunts me. Loads of cherry up front, with a fruit salad in the middle and some diesel on the finish. The burning soldier makes an appearance on the nose, though, in my youth it was burning model planes to make their crashing seem realistic, till I burned a hole through my forearm.
June 3, 2008

onekailuaboy
QOTD: 2001 Chryseia Douro, loved this so much I picked up a 6btl case. I’m now down to my last bottle, sadness. Trouble, here in Hawaii we don’t get a lot of wines from Portugal, however we get a lot from Spain.
June 3, 2008

Clifford
Haven’t tried a Portuguese wine yet. Can’t promise to try it this week, but I will make sure to do it sometime within the next few weeks.

If you are wondering about the Vayniacs’ demographics, this lurker is 27 years old.
June 3, 2008

Shane
Nice little cameo on System today. So, we going to see you as part of R3 soon?
June 3, 2008

Russ
Good show GV. QOTD -Haven’t had a one yet but will this week. We have been stuck on Borolo’s and Rioja’s lately.
June 3, 2008

yowens
Sweet values. QOTD: I’m not sure I’ve had one, but I will soon
June 3, 2008

BobbyTiger
Portuguese wines? Not to this point, but……………………………………………………I promise, yes promise, to purchase some this weekend. While I don’t expect to find the wines you showcased, I’ll do my best to find a nice looking label, and selling for around 8 to 10 ba-ba bones.
June 3, 2008

Susan
Gary-QOTD: I will get a Portuguese red THIS week………….. Thanks for expanding our palates!!!!
June 3, 2008

Patt
QOTD: PORT!!!!! well…..it used to be red. Tawny is my favorite unless it is Vintage.
June 3, 2008

Indigo
BACKGROUND MUSIC??? Do you have a new producer – adding a bit more to the thunder show. What song is it?

Great show!
June 3, 2008

ruffy
Thanks for showing good stuff from the rectangle by the Atl.Ocean!

Best Portuguese Wines: Barca Velha, CARM 2005 and last but not least Vinho de Colares (probably one of the most unique wines in the World).
June 3, 2008

ruffy
Douro and Alentejo are in fact great wine producing regions…They are in oposite extremes of the country and differ quite a lot in climate and soil types. In between, among many others, i recommend you to try some wine from the DÃƒo region. They have some really interesting unique wines. Check it out!
June 3, 2008

Kelly
QTOD:I have never tasted a Portuguese wine but have one in my cellar. I will drink it this week.
June 3, 2008

RieslingRon
I haven’t bought a bottle of Portuguese wine, however, I have had a glass of red at a restaurant that I enjoyed very much.

I will be looking for the Cerejerias.
June 3, 2008

Chris in Tulsa
QOTD: Have not had a Portugese wine that really stands out as my favorite. Need to try more. Do love Vinho Verdes with shell fish! Great summer wine.
June 3, 2008

KyleLikesTies
QoTD: I’ve not had a Portuguese red in ages … -but- I’m running a bit behind on the things I’ve promised to try (a dry ros’e is one that stands out … although I saw a 100% cab. franc ros’e at a shop the other day, and it’s hard for anything made from cab. franc to be bad, so I think I’ll have to give that one a go). That said, I’ll try some more Portuguese reds when I have a chance.
June 3, 2008

BigTarheel
2003 Quinta do vale Meao Meandro
June 4, 2008

Michael DeFino
Quinta do Crasto blend was one of my favorites for a long time. Portugal Rocks!!!!
June 4, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: I’ve had a few, but other than port, I haven’t had a solid red Douro or other Portuguese wine as of yet, and the last one I had (to expand my palate) was pretty bad- over-extracted and no transition from the berry fruit to the finish, resulting in a flavor profile much like a raspberry-flavored rum or vodka…ugh. BUT, my search is not over, and I PROMISE to buy another this week and will continue to try different (under $13) Portuguese reds until I find a few solid representations of the level of quality that the country can produce. Cheers, Big G..
June 4, 2008

Justin L Ove
QOTD: Adriano Douro, 2005. 10 bones, I can dig it.
June 4, 2008

bangkokbabay
Thanks Gary! I will be picking some some Portugese Reds this week – to keep my PAL happy and entertained! I will be keeping an eye out for the ones you tried especially Tinto da Anfora -
June 4, 2008

lurkdawg
My favorite has probably been the Quinta do Crasto 2004. I’m not sure if they make more than one light(non-fortified) red wine, but the one I had (about $36) was great. The ‘03 was also very good.
June 4, 2008

wayno da wino
Yooo Geee, Aaaaaaawesome Thunder/Energy in da Hizzy!!!!

QOTD: Favorite Portuguese Red Vino??? Don’t got none. Had some Port
loooong time ago, but dat type of Vino usually knocks-me on me ass, tooo
potent!! Did get da Alvarinho Dorado Vinho Verde (white) 2005 from Ya a
couple months back. Haven’t tried it yet. Think i’ll crack one a dhose Puppys open tonight…YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH !!!!!!
June 4, 2008

LauraG
QOTD: Quinta do Zambujerio.
June 4, 2008

Karpacz Noclegi
NICE GOOD SHOW
June 4, 2008

Stryker
QOTD:
Charumba.

For the price it’s pretty good. I really should get more experience in the Portugues wines, though.
June 4, 2008

Tom Cihil
I first enjoyed Portuguese wines while working in the Azores years ago and have appreciated them ever since. Sadly, the selection of these fascinating wines is not very good in the antiquated PA liquor system.
June 5, 2008

damien
promise to try some portuguese! that’s right chone figgins is the man. hey g, here is so cal we call him “sean” figgins. ran in to him at the local mall during the off season and said hi. real nice guy, he pronounses his name sean though? go figure
June 5, 2008

Zk
QOTD: I promise to try a new Portuguese red wine this week. I love Tawney port but have not gotten into Portuguese red wines, I’ll try to find some around the same $8-$10 price range. Great Show!
June 5, 2008

Susan
Gary-Who knew that you would leave us hanging?????????????
June 6, 2008

jeremiah
QOTD: Charumba for $7dollars. Is the best $7dollars i spent on a wine.
June 6, 2008

T. Bone
Ok, splitting hairs over $6-7 wine versus $10 is asinine. Give me a break, pay the extra $3. It’s not an $80 ream-you meritage, come on.

Portuguese wines just rock, excellent topic. I hope you do many, many more shows on these wines.

Have had many Syrahs from this neighborhood recently. Mixed bag, really, as it is an “international” varietal. Invariably in a blend with Touriga Nacional. Some really good stuff. Many local varietals, especially some of the whites, are rocking. But when it comes to Portugal, you’ve got to go for the Tawny’s. Vintage ports are good too, but I love Tawny, and it won’t break the bank like the VPs do.

Seriously, though, stop with the $10 is overpriced thing, that sets the wrong expectation. If you can get a really good wine for $10 and that’s a couple bucks more than the $$$ you spend on your usual crap, then don’t buy the pack of cigs and spring for the better vino. $10 is not a lot to pay for real wine, I don’t care who you are. Don’t train people to go for happy meals when for a few bucks more they can support real, biodynamic/organic producers who care about their product.
June 6, 2008

Susan
Gary-WWWWHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOO??? WWWWWWHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO??????????????? gave you the green owl shirt???
June 6, 2008

PSPatrick
QOTD: Casa Santos Lima “Quinta de Bons-Ventos” 2003 (Estremadura – Alenquer IPR). Stunning QPR. EURO 4.90 a bottle. Tried one bottle, ended up with 19 bottles before the vintage was no longer available. Enjoyed them on summer evenings with friends, all of them fell in love with this wine for its balance and silkiness. Probably the best under ten dollar wine I ever had.
June 6, 2008

Robert Celli
Love this episode!…I’ve been watching for the past year and the passion you have can not be denied. I’ve been trying Portuguese wines as of late in San Francisco. Couldn’t agree more, Great value, at a realistic price point. Bummed I missed your book signing recently but I’m spreading the word. I would love to hear more food pairing recommendations with your reviews, but that’s just me…Bring the THUNDER!!
June 7, 2008

vivaitalia
2004 Quinta val meo duoro. Excellent balance and pure fruit. A little more expensive but great is the 2005 quinto do chocopalha. Stellar and available widely here in Tampa Bay.
June 7, 2008

vivaitalia
Didn’t read through all the comments so i’m not sure if anyone’s covered this but tinta roriz is tempranillo. I know one or two of the others are also common varieties (cab sauv and fran i beleive). An episode educating us on the dozens of grapes of Portugal would be sweet.
June 7, 2008

Pedro
Dona Maria Reserva – Alentejo
June 7, 2008

Pedro
Tinta Roriz is Tempranillo in the North of Portugal, in the South of Portugal it is known as AragonÃªs.
Actually Portugal has over 500 grape variatals.
Wine has been produced in the region where Portugal is located, known previously as Lusitania, since the time of the Romans or be it over 5000 years ago!
June 7, 2008

*/^_^\*
qotd: i do not remember if i’ve had a portuguese wine but i will buy one the next time i’m at the store just to be sure
June 8, 2008

elron
Loved the show Gary. After growing up in a Portuguese neighborhood(Newark’s Ironbound), marrying into a great Portuguese family and having a wine importer relative, I have tried many wines from there. Most times, I don’t even remember the names of the wines I drink from there neither. Example, just had two really good ones(a white and a red) at a cousins Christening last Sunday and have no clue what they were. All I know is, they were nice!

When we go visit Portugal, we visit the North and South family members so we get different tastes the whole trip. However, as good as some of their wines are, it isn’t “my” first wine country of choice. Oh oh, I think I might be in trouble now.

Cartuxa, Primavera Reserve(although, bottle to bottle it varies), and one with some Cabernet in it that I can’t remember the name that I drink all the time are some of my favorites besides others.

p.s. Like Pedro said, wine has been made there for a stupendous amount of time.
June 8, 2008

Tommy Vernieri
QOTD: Wow, just checked CellarTracker and I’m surprised. The only Portuguese wines I’ve had are Port and Vinho Verde. I’ve got to get on that.
June 9, 2008

Blake W
QOTD: I have yet to try one, but I have one aging at the moment (Quinta do Zambujerio)
June 10, 2008

RonC
Tried the Sanguinhal Cerejeiras and really liked it. Just ordered a case.
June 10, 2008

Ricardo PatrocÃnio
Cortes de Cima, all wine from this producer are great!
http://www.cortesdecima.pt/,

and Niepoort wine, those are all great as well:
http://www.niepoort-vinhos.com/
June 11, 2008

JIKvig
QOTD – Periquita is my must drunk wine, overall. A cheap, fruity and good wine. Have been going over to other wines the last months, but I have had buckets of Periquita.
June 13, 2008

jose
POEIRA
June 14, 2008

Dan-o
GV – good show.
I have not had many Portugese table wines.
I will commit to go out and find some soon.
June 15, 2008

Sleak
Thanks, GV. I’ll go seek out one this week. All I’ve ever had are ports.
June 16, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Great show!

Q-Not sure, only had a few, need to try more.
June 19, 2008

hdgs
Hi all.. Good day
June 27, 2008

Francisco
Hi there! I live in Brazil! Talking about Portuguese Red Wines.. I am having just now a DAO Quinta de Cabriz 2005, 88 points from Wine Spectator (2004).Very good wine (grapes Alfrocheiro, Tinta-Roriz and Touriga-Nacional).Here, it costs R$ 22,00 ( circa of US$ 13.75).As Vaynerchuk rightsfully says,” wine is supposed to bring people together” and not a “pissing contest” on who knows more about!Keep up with the good work..
June 30, 2008

James McLaren
Hey GV
Thanks for the hello to the UK contingent. I’ve only been on your case since Christmas but religiously use your videos to accompany going running. Have thought for ages you should come to the country and help strip the conservatism that seems inherent here. I want to raise my hand and petition for a signing in Cardiff, Wales. Please don’t just go to London, Manchester and Glasgow. We may have a small country but our public transport system is so bollocks that getting to those towns is like you taking a road trip to Seattle or somewhere.
James \m/
June 30, 2008

Oakmon's BF
I just had my first Portugal red. It was 2004 Sogrape Dao Duque de Viseu. It was a blend of touriga nacional, jaen, alfrocheiro and preto. Not bad for 10 bones. Lots of black pepper and a little cranberry on the nose. A little thick and chemical inky with some bite and drying on the finish.
July 10, 2008

kjdion
love the green owl shirt as well
July 10, 2008

digitaldean
QOTD – Trying to buy a few different wines to start a collection of my own. Will start my search tomorrow to find the Cerejeiras!
July 16, 2008

Tim
QOTD – Charamba 2004 Douro.
July 21, 2008

MattUD
I really don’t think I have missed from portgual yet, but hard to pick one that is my favorite.
November 23, 2008

Ray Barnes
I hope I find that very good $6 wine. Was quite surprised to find one that was not a winner there.

QOTD – Just tried the 2005 Quinta do Crasto DOC Douro, very good indeed and inexpensive too.
November 28, 2008

Cliff and Darcey
Sorry I missed this awesome episode when it came out … we have been drinking great values from Portugal ever since you first turned Darcey and I on to them. You get yet another great thank you from us.
January 13, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
QOTD: Port. I drink a good amount of it and looooove it. Love the flavors of chocolate, smoke, caramel, toffee, coffee, wood, etc. Have a 94 Dows and planning on buying a top 2003. Almost always have one when Im out at a nice restaurant with a chocolate dessert.
February 9, 2009

TommyB
Hi Gary; I have tried my first bottle of Portugese red wine and I am a little blown away! You NEED to try this bottle; it’s £6.99 over here and I am going to take it to a tasting and buy some more bottles for my family and friends. I think it’s wonderful – I hope you find it and I hope you agree.

2005 Point West, Touriga National, Regional Estremadura, Portugal. 13%. If you find it e-mail me and let me know what you think. Tom.
March 26, 2009

marcio
Dam those grape varieties are hard to pronounce…
I have many favourites but i cant tell.
all the best,
May 9, 2009

Tom
Having Lived in Portugal several years and with a wife from Portugal, we have some good experience in this arena and our opinions are:

BEST VERDE – ALVARINHO. Medium-High priced
Palacio Da Brejoeira – Moncao region

VERDE (All Tastes) – CASAL GARCIA (Cheap Price!) Tastes always the same. Good for a first experience of green wines. Better than Lancer’s but in the same category for the Portuguese native.

GOOD QUALITY – GOOD PRICE:
FALCOARIA -white- of Ribatejo region.
SERRAS DE AZEITAO -white-(2005) Sado Region.
MONTE VELHO – red (2006) Alentejo Region
CABECA DE BURRO – red (2005) Douro Region.

Be Aware that PORTO & MADEIRA wines are from Portugal Only.
Because of the regions they come from, which is Porto and Madeira.

Be aware of the FAKE wines such as the the so-called “Porto” from Australia.
It would be the same as calling champagne to wine that does not come from the region of Champagne in France.
That’s why all the other sparkling wines are just called sparkling wines made according to the “Champagne Method.”

Boas Festas! Enjoy!
May 29, 2009

mrzitro
I promise to expand my wine palate and make a run at the wine century club.
July 25, 2009

Askold Shegedyn
You are nuts! The Anfora reminds of an over alcoholic Shiraz. The bitterness is the alcohol. This one of the first reviews I completely differ with you.
October 31, 2009

DDB
yah!