18 Jun 2025
Following the success of last week’s Portuguese duo, I’m back with two more, this time from the formidable team at Cellar Door Wines…
AB Valley ‘Barrete’ Vinho Verde 2024 (£11.95 Cellar Door Wines)
In the lush Minho region of Portugal, AB Valley presents a captivating wine with their ‘Barrete’ Vinho Verde 2024. This wine embodies a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, crafted by the dedicated team at Três Rostos.
Três Rostos is a winery that stands out for its commitment to quality and sustainability. With a deep connection to their land and community, this all-female team embraces organic principles and sustainable practices.
The label of ‘Barrete’ Vinho Verde features a charming robin wearing a traditional cap, or ‘barrete’; This bird, native to the Minho region, plays a crucial role in the vineyard ecosystem, helping maintain the natural balance.
The robin symbolises the winery’s dedication to preserving the environment and working in harmony with nature.
This Vinho Verde is a vibrant blend of Loureiro, Arinto, and Fernão Pires grapes.
Harvested slightly earlier to keep the alcohol content lower (10.5 per cent ABV), this wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks to retain its fresh fruit character. It offers a delightful burst of citrus and floral notes, with the authentic spritz of Vinho Verde adding a refreshing touch. Perfect for pairing with sushi, grilled fish, or salads.
Grand Arte Alicante Bouschet 2022 (Special Offer £16.95 Cellar Door Wines)
From the sun-drenched vineyards of Lisboa, Portugal, comes the Grand Arte Alicante Bouschet 2022, a wine that truly embodies the spirit of its region with profound depth and character.
Produced by DFJ Vinhos, a distinguished winery known for its innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality. Led by the experienced winemaker José
Neiva Correia, DFJ Vinhos has a reputation for crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of Lisboa.
Grand Arte Alicante Bouschet 2022 showcases the remarkable potential of the Alicante Bouschet grape. This wine is notable for its deep, almost black colour and intense aroma of ripe blackberries and black pepper. The aging process in French oak barrels for three months adds layers of complexity, resulting in a smooth and
velvety texture on the palate.
The ripe fruit notes are beautifully balanced with subtle hints of oak, creating a wine that is both elegant and robust. The aroma of black coffee and the presence of ripe tannins contribute to its juicy, structured profile.
This versatile wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or alongside tapas, red meat, risotto, paella, pasta, pizza, vegetarian dishes, curry, or dry cheese, it is sure to enhance any meal.
As well as exdploring these wines, why not join Penny and her team on June 28 to celebrate 21 wonderful years of Cellar Door Wines with a spectacular summer wine tasting event? Meet esteemed suppliers and producers of the finest Portuguese and South African wines, and savour 30 different styles of wine in their company.
Indulge in a diverse selection of sparkling and still wines, meticulously curated to delight every palate. From crisp whites to refreshing rosés and chilled reds perfect for the summer heat, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply appreciate a good glass, this event is designed for you. Tickets available here.
