2016 Mapreco Vinho Verde Rose, Minho, Portugal                              $11

2016 Mapreco Vinho Verde Rose may confuse your understanding of Vinho Verde or “green” wines from the cool and damp Minho Region in the north west above Porto. We have featured another Mapreco Vinho Verde that is a white blend. The 2016 Mapreco Rose is made from dark skinned Espadeiro grapes which are primarily used for “green” wines. This is a lovely blush wine with aromas and tastes of red currant and  fresh fruits with some acidity and a finish with a refreshing effervescence. Slight sweetness  is balanced by the wine’s acidity. This is an excellent pairing for lobster and shellfish. Alcohol: 10.5%

2014 Quinta da Alorna, Cardal Vino Tinto, Tejo, Portugal                  $10

2014 Quinta da Alorna, Cardal Red comes from from the Teho Region which is just east of Lisbon. This is a warm, dry region that to the Portuguese  means the land of vineyards, olive groves, cork forests, Mertolengo cattle, and the famous Lusitano horses. This wine is made from Touriga Nacional, Castelão, and Trincadeira grapes. Ripe red fruit aromas such as plums and floral hints come from the Touriga. This is a full-bodied wine with soft tannins. I suggest letting it breathe to open the fullness. Consider this as a great pairing for grilled meat. Alcohol: 13%