The Enthusiast - March 2025
March madness is upon us. The white rabbit is checking his watch. The tea party is set. The red queen has lost her head. At least there’s one thing you can rely on: The Wine Fellas’ monthly delivery!
We’re sticking with a winter theme with some hearty reds and unctuous white wines. Great for dressing up as the Mad Hatter or Alice in Wonderland for your Carneval party.
As always, wine descriptions below, and if you run out, you can order more from The Cellar.
Don’t forget, you can look up past boxes in The Archive.
Vidigal, "Bailado" Chardonnay/Arinto
[grape/vintage] Chardonnay, Arinto / 2021
[region] Lisboa
Creamy, fresh bursts of tropical rainbows spilling over fresh cut lemons like a magical mystery tour of joy and happiness. It’s a chewable white wine for any time of year but especially when it’s late winter and you’re desperate for a taste of summer and samba and sunsets.
Pairs well with shrimp risotto, wild salmon, pad thai, cheesecake with raspberry coulis
Check it out in The Cellar.
Vidigal, "Bailado" Touriga Nacional/Syrah
[grape/vintage] Touriga Nacional, Syrah / 2020
[region] Lisboa
This is one of those wines that does more than what it says on the tin. It might look like a traditional Douro red but it’s more subtle than that. Open it a few minutes before drinking and let it breathe. It will reveal its complexity and reward your patience.
Pairs well with …grilled prime red meats like a juicy picanha or t-bone, or a hearty game stew.
Check it out in The Cellar.
Quinta do Pinto, Estate Collection Tinto
[grape/vintage] Alfrocheiro, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional / 2016
[region] Lisboa
Make me smile. Make me feel something. Make me think. Yup, this classy blend of international and Portuguese grapes does all that. It’s a late night café in Mouraria, full of life and polyglot conversation. It’s a night train to Budapest in 1990, full of hope and cigarette smoke. Fresh and ready, balanced and intelligent, full of character.
Pairs well with a seared fatty steak, a pheasant stew, any variety of strong, mature cheeses.
Check it out in The Cellar.