The Insider - June 2025
Yeehaw, it’s almost officially summer! Let the good times roll and the wine flow!!! It’s time for some Alvarinho, some good bbq friendly reds and maybe a new swim suit and sun hat.
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.
Camaleão, Alvarinho
[grape/vintage] Alvarinho / 2024
[region] Vinho Verde
It’s like Springtime dancing across the earth in her shimmering dress made of spider webs and rainbows and flower petals. Bright and vivacious, she banishes the winter winds, and fills the air with honeysuckle and bees and the promise of lavander.
Pairs well with a fresh grilled fish with a squeeze of lemon and drizzle of olive oil, Setubal oysters or unagi sashimi, a lemon-herb chicken or a frisée salad with fresh warmed goat cheese.
Check it out in The Cellar.
Herdade da Amada, Touriga Nacional
[grape/vintage] Touriga Nacional /2022
[region] Alentejo
Deep ruby-violet. A very elegant nose with a varietal character, clean, fresh and balsamic, with fresh raspberry, orange peel and violets standing out, growing over time in the glass, in a perfect match with the barrel. A subtle attack, with all the delicacy added to a harmony of great amplitude throughout the tasting, with a polished structure and good unctuousness. In the finish, the floral and menthol notes, with a light, well-integrated background toast, leave us with a great and lasting sensation of pleasure.
Pairs well with a roast lamb flavored with rosemary, to grilled rabbit with bold and exotic seasonings.Â
Check it out in The Cellar.
Quinta do Convento Reserva, Tinto
(grape/vintage) Vinhas Velhas (mistura de castas)/ 2018
[region] Douro
Smooth, complex, elegant. The winemaker won’t (can’t) say what grapes are in this cuz it’s a field blend from old vines that date back 100 years. If you were that old you’d have some damn good stories to tell as well. Crack this open, sit back and let the tales pour over your tongue.
…elegance, like a grilled medium-rare filet mignon with horseradish on the side, or dressed, roast pheasant.
Check it out in The Cellar.
