Luis Pato, “Informal” Branco do Baga
Steeped in smokey minerality from the rich Bairrada earth then subtly enveloped in sweet hints of raspberry from the Baga grape must, this is not your usual sparkling conversation starter. Bottle top opening lets you dispense with ceremony and get straight down to business. Drink this all through dinner.
Pairs well with itself or the kitchen sink – seriously, it’s got such character it complements tapas, main course or dessert. You choose.
Tradition, elegance, poise. This sparkling Rosé from Bairrada is an old butler in a costume drama…reliable, unflappable, knows how to deliver. Peachy and stoney and toasty with a fine mousse. Fill your guests’ glasses and wow them when you tell them where it’s from.
Pairs well with smoked salmon, pasteis de bacalhau, leitão da bairrada.
Dona Paterna, Espumante Bruto 100% Alvarinho
Deep and fruity and yet fine and crisp; light and airy and yet complex and intense…basically, an enigma wrapped in a paradox and captured in a bottle. Alvarinho is the starting point but where you end up is floating over a sun-baked vineyard somewhere in the Vinho Verde.
Pair with a celebration as an aperitif, but its personality makes it very gastronomic so go ahead and experiment!
