WTN: Qunita Dos Carvalhais Duque De Viseu White 2008

DOC Dao
Sogrape Vinhos

A blend of Bical, Encruzado and small amounts of Cercial and Malvasia Fina.

Bright yellow in the glass.

Fresh, citrus rind and spicy on the nose.

Medium weight, lemon rind, ruby grapefruit and a hint of peach, drying, peppery, zingy acidity, fresh, clean, refreshing. Makes me think of summer.

A crisp and mouthwatering finish.

Purchased at $12.95 (Canadian) and a good value at that price.

Thanks for the note on this - I was touring around Portugal when the forum did Dao wines a few weeks back and didn't have time to post anything. If you see any Dao wines made from 100% Encruzado give them a try. Carvalhais makes one, but I haven't seen it. From experience, I know Carbriz makes a nice one and I had another good one from Casa de Mouraz (small, organic producer not likely to be found here) whilst in Portugal. Winemakers seem to do barrel fermentation or use some oak with Encruzado, but it seems to work if done carefully.

Many of the Dao wines we get here in NA are mass market products from big producers like Sogrape (also makes Grao Vasco), Dao Sul, Borges, etc. While they can make some good to even great wines, it would be nice to have more small producers (e.g. Quinta dos Roques) more easily available.