Two value reds from Portugal

[dananne]

1998 Caves Velhas Romeira Reserva Palmela

Light garnet in color. I saw a review on this on the Wine Lover's DG page from a "World Shippers" tasting or some such, and it was called a fruit bomb. Either there is significant bottle variation, or the note was written a long time ago, or some other wierd phenomenon explains it, but my notes couldn't be more different. Frankly, I think this one would pass for a traditional-style Rioja with some age on it in both nose and flavor profile. Interesting leathery note. Made from Periquita, which I think is the same as Castelao. Alc.. 13%.

2001 J.P. Vinhos Monte das Anforas Alentejano

Darker color on this, more reddish-purple. This one was great, in that it is a perfect example of an interesting, enjoyable wine that doesn't just throw fruit at you. There are dark fruits in the background, to be sure, but what really shows through are wet earth, tobacco, leather, coffee, mineral and similar notes. Velvet tannins, some acidity, and a lengthy finish make this an enjoyable drink that would compliment a variety of meat dishes. Alc. 13%. This is a blend of the aforementioned Castelao, Aragonez (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, and Alfrochiero.

Both ran around $10. Anne liked the first one better, while I enjoyed the second.

Oh, and both had the cutest little corks -- little "mini corks" that are about 70% of the size of regular corks. Have no idea why. And, am I the only one who would put money on Portugal being the last major wine producing country to make a big jump into screw caps?

[This message has been edited by dananne (edited 03-25-2006).]

[winoweenie]

Sounds perfectly rational to moi'. WW

[hotwine]

Yup, since most corks are made in Portugal, would expect those folks to be the last to adopt an alternative.