Wines for the holidays. Mine and those of others, of course!

Holidays. Finally. With family, on that special place where we reunite every year, right at the end od July, very handy for me, because meanwhile August is around the corner, and harvest along with it, and that for me is working time and its sacred! If everything needs to fit in the car, from suitcases to the kid’s favourite toys, then there must be space for the parent’s favourite things – the wines!

Being it a passion, professional handicap, or just because I like to have my meals planned, I always make sure to take a good selection of wine with me. Anyway, who has never found themselves in the local supermarket rushing to find a wine that may save the barbecue? Here, in a way of suggestions, I leave my choices for the holidays. Are we going loaded? Yes! But don’t worry, when you get there you will have more time to rest, and you might even save some money…

Magma Verdelho 2015 – 15€

From the micro region of Biscoitos, in Azores. It is a salty wine, different, loaded with characteristic notes, only possible due to the volcanic soils of Azores. I couldn’t be without it these holidays, especially with seafood.

Adega Mãe Riesling 2014 – 8,5€

Acid, vibrant and refreshing, perfect for summer, for dinner time or to enjoy siting on the balcony watching the sunset. I have to confess that this wine evolved so well that this year I took a full box with me. But my family is big…

(Note: I promise no more wines from me)

AdegaMae Riesling

Muros de Melgaço Alvarinho 2015 – 12€

It doesn’t need introductions, i tis a great portuguese white wine of Master Anselmo. With the advantage of being very versatile; you can drink it cooler and it is a great wine for seafood, or serve it warmer and pair it with richer food. It’s worth every cent. And if you have a fussy uncle siting at the table this the wine for him.

Vadio Branco 2015 – 9€

Oh, how much I enjoy the wite’s from Bairrada. This Vadio is GREAT, an example of the minerality and texture of chalk soils of the region.

Fóssil Branco 2016 – 8€

A beautiful white from Lisbon region, atlantic, minieral, vibrant. White wine and Lisbon region, what more can I say…

Gaba do Xil Godello 2016 – 9€

I would be lying if I told you I don’t buy wine on vacation. Of course, I do! Normally I go on vacation to the south of Spain and take advantage of the location and I buy some wines from Valdeorras or Ribeira Sacra. Normally a Godello, which is a variety I enjoy tremendously.

Kompassus Blanc de Noir Espumante – 14€

I admit, I drink more and more portuguese sparkling wine. This one is my favourute, I take it everywhere with me, not only on summer vacation. Are there any oysters available?

Dom Rafael Tinto 2014 – 25€

Because on vacation you don’t always eat fish, we need a voluptuous wine for barbecued lamb chops, right? Here is a wine originated from the mythic Herdade do Mouchão, less known but really a great wine for the price payed.

Vicentino Pinot Noir – 25€

A special red from the Atlantic area of Alentejo. Very elegant, soft tannins, good acidity. It really calls for another grilled meat dish! Take it out if after the fussy uncle your boss shows up…

Tyto Alba 2013

A red wine from Ribatejo, made from ptotected vineyards, at a very reasonable price for its quality. One more wine for the barbecue, very balsamic and silky tannins. It asks for something succulent.

After, when you return home the car comes back emptier! There is only advantages in that! Happy Holidays!