Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde 2009

Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde 2009
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Loureiro (60%), Trajadura (30%), and Alvarinho (10%)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: December 2010
Purchase Price: $8.99

Our review: A very pale straw in color, this wine has aromas of citrus and citrus flowers. The palate has a light, soft citrus flavor, slightly tart with a faint sensation of effervescence. The finish adds a touch of minerality, is surprisingly long, though without much depth.

Our rating: This is a most delightful "green wine", perfect as an aperitif before or served during a light meal, or all by itself while reading a book or enjoying a sunset. The citrus character suggests pairing with seafood, though we think it could easily accompany most fish or white meat dishes. (We had intended to serve our bottle with a vegetarian pizza, but it was gone long before the pie came out of the oven!) We rate it Above Average, nearly Excellent. (Vinho Verdes are intended to be consumed young, so purchase the most recent vintage you can find.)

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Harmonious wine with a fresh, fruity and delicate aroma, where the presence of tropical fruits and white flowers is evident. The palate offers a long and persistent finish."

Winery website: Aveleda. Our Wine. Our Love. Our Life..

Gazela Vinho Verde NV

Gazela Vinho Verde NV
Origin: Portugal
Blend: The predominant variety is Loureiro, with Pedernã, Trajadura and Azal being used in smaller amounts
Alcohol Content: 9.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $5.99

Our review: Silver straw in color with a very light effervescence, this wine has a bouquet of tree fruit (notably pear) and apple blossom. Initially slightly bitter and tart on the palate, the fruit flavors are quickly balanced by a touch of sweetness. There isn't much of a finish (nor is one really expected).

Our rating: We really enjoy vinho verdes, low in alcohol and perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon (or really, for that matter, at any time). This one is a typical example, not exceptional, but unusually complex. We rate it on the high side of Average (and at $6, a terrific value). Most vinho verdes are non-vintage, and are best when consumed as soon as possible after bottling, so look for the most recent date you can find on the bottle (usually on the export label). This rated bottle has a 2009 date.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A very light yellow citrine colour, with a slight fizz that enhances its bouquet, flavours and freshness. Aromatic and engaging, its citrine and tropical fruit notes have a lively and stimulating acidity, very well balanced by a slight touch of sugar."

Winery website: Sogrape Vinhos.

Quinta de Azevedo Vinho Verde 2008

Quinta de Azevedo Vinho Verde 2008
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Loureiro (70%), Pedernã (30%)
Alcohol Content: 10.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $8.99

Our review: Pale yellow with green tints and aromas of citrus and apricot and faint notes of orange blossom. A gentle effervesence accompanies the citrus-dominated fruit flavor on the palate and is nicely balanced with some mineral character. The finish is smooth and lengthy.

Our rating: Vinho Verde wines have come a long way in recent years, and it is still unusual to come across a specific vintage from a single vineyard. This particular "green" wine is quite pleasant and can easily be enjoyed as an aperitif. But to enjoy its full complexity, we suggest you pair it with an appetizer or salad course. Our score: Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A light, yellow, citrus-like hue, very clear and appealing. Its bouquet is intense and complex with notes of white fruits, tropical fruits, citrus and white flowers. In the mouth, the first impression is of a lively and stimulating wine, with good acidity and well balanced with good body. It has an intense and complex flavour with notes similar to those identified in the bouquet, and a long and lingering finish."

Winery website: Sogrape Brands.