EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

Inspiring, audacious, unique, the wines of Portugal bring a new dimension to your holiday entertaining

WHATEVER THE SCALE of your celebrations this year, the idea of getting together with family and friends will be front and centre in the coming weeks. And from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties, wine plays a starring role. It’s the perfect moment to explore the vibrant, versatile wines currently being created in Portugal. You’ll be delighted by what you find. Old knowledge and long experience have come together with fresh ideas and the latest technology to create a new generation of Portuguese wines that are renowned for their quality and full of expressive personality. Portugal’s wine-growing regions are amazingly diverse. Climates range from the cool, moist Atlantic breezes of Vinho Verde to the sun-parched heat of the Douro valley; vineyards flourish among the mountainous pine forests of Dão e Lafões, on Alentejo’s cork oak plains and all through Lisboa’s multiplicity of coastal landscapes. The country is also home to over 250 indigenous grape varieties, traditionally used in a countless variety of blends. It’s true that Touriga Nacional, Arinto and Castelão may not be household names in the rest of the world, but these varieties have long and noble histories – superb material for today’s more avantgarde winemakers. What does all this mean to wine lovers in Ontario, heading into the holiday season? A wonderful opportunity to discover the diversity, quality and exceptional value of Portuguese wines! From fresh, delicate whites to profound, full-bodied reds, there is a wealth of food-friendly choices for every mood and occasion – and for every budget.