Portal da Calcada Vinho Verde Reserva

Usually when I write about Vihno Verde, I talk about its light spritz and the fun of summer drinking.

That's because sometimes it's hard to tell one Vinho Verde from another, but today we've got a wine that might change your whole perspective on what Vihno Verde can be.

Portal da Calçada is one of the oldest and most esteemed producers in this historic region. Built in 1707, it was already producing wine when Napoleon took up residence in 1809. Contemporaneous inventory records show that his stay seriously depleted the cellar! 

The current family ownership dates back to 1917, and the property boasts the oldest vineyards in Vinho Verde, with some of the vines approaching 90 years old.

Everything Calçada does is first class  –  the property houses an acclaimed Relais & Châteaux hotel, and one of the first Michelin-starred restaurants in Portugal, which uses this wine as a fixture on their tasting menu.

Because they want to highlight the quality of the vines and fruit, Calçada eschews the usual shot of CO2 that gives mass produced Vihno Verde its spritz. But just because it doesn't "pop" doesn't mean this serious wine isn't fun.

It’s the light, bright-flavored, and a perfect wine to spend the summer with. Of course, Portugal is more famous for Port, but hey, it gets hot in Portugal and they, just like us, need something cold to drink during the mid-afternoon heat (and evening, and morning heat, too).  

Vinho Verde literally means “green wine,” a reference to its youthful nature and refreshment. While its grapes may be unknown to you – it’s usually made with Alvarinho, Loureiro, Trajadura and Arinto – its flavors are not.

Think of a mineral-driven french Sauvignon Blanc that's a little more laid back and approachable.

This is Calçada's "Reserva" wine, meaning it's their top bottling. One of the great things about Vihno Verde is the prices are so reasonable, that even their highest quality wines can be found for great prices. And today, you can drink the best at a price that beats all the rest.

So let’s get summer started out right and have a party outside, all day long. À sua saúde!