2000 Altano Douro

[jackl]

I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this since it was my first experience with a Portugese wine, but it seemed well made and pretty tasty. Upon first tasting it reminded me of a Loire red or some other cab franc-based wine. Maybe a little fuller than a Loire red, it seemed to have comparable acidity (which is to say good). The taste was primarily of crushed blackberries with some earth thrown in too. The nose was similar with the earth being more prominent. I'd give it a good overall score, especially given the price being under a 10 spot.

[wondersofwine]

Portuguese wines are getting increasing notice. I'll have to try some but my usual retailer doesn't carry them. About all I have had (other than Port) is a vino verde (sp)--a somewhat acidic young white wine that takes some of the heat out of peppery Portuguese cuisine.

[Tastevin]

Hello Jackl.
Just seen your post re Altano 2000. You may be interested to know that it won a bronze medal here in the Portuguese section of the 2002 International Wine Challenge. It was described as 'vibrant wine with intense berry aromas. The palate is structured with sweet vanilla oak and good weight'. Sells here at your equivalent of 10 dollars. T