Vinho Verde Collection

A mouthwatering blend based on the fragrant loureiro grape variety, with a splash of alvarinho, and little or no spritz, made by the Companhia de Vinhos Invencivel, also known as Invincible, a joint project between Rita Marques of Conceito, Portugal and Marc Kent of Boekenhoutskloof, South Africa. Crisp, refreshing and easy drinking without lacking personality.

Quinta do Ameal dates back to the early 1700s but its acquisition by the team at Esporão a few years ago has seen it given a wonderful new lease of life. Bico Amarelo is an affordable but serious Vinho Verde, without the sweetness or spritz of poorer examples. This is a blend of avesso, loureiro and alvrarinho grapes from across the region. The nose is crisp and fresh with lemon verbena and pear. The palate is pure and refreshing, with a touch of fresh mint towards the end.

A crisp, lemony and zesty dry white wine from the Vinho Verde region of Portugal, produced entirely from the arinto grape. Quinta do Bustelo is a 25-hectare property, containing just a few hectares of vines, built in a beautiful traditional northern Portuguese architectural style. This, too, is classically styled Vinho Verde, albeit produced entirely from a single grape variety rather than the more commonly blended wines. As a result, this is particularly crisp citrusy and focused.

Vinho Verde is commonly a blend of Portuguese native grape varieties but in some instances you can find excellent examples with just one grape in the bottle. This is 100% loureiro, which translates as 'laurel', in reference to the distinctive aroma of the berries and its a delicately aromatic, pretty and fresh white wine. A step up from the Atuar blend that we have listed in the past, however those of you who enjoyed that should find this a particular treat!

The historic Quinta da Raza founders in 1791 are the forebears of current winemaker Diogo Teixeira. The state own 40 hectares in the Vinho Verde sub region of Celorico do Basto and this is an excellent bottling solely of the Portuguese native grape avesso, noted for its slightly fuller body and notes of honeysuckle. This is an excellent example with aromas of fleshy white fruits, honeysuckle, grapefruit and a delicately herbal note. The palate is fresh and dry and pleasingly generous, with limes, pears, quince and white flowers. Just enough concentration makes this a perfect food pairing wine but without it becoming too heavy. Ideal with ceviche, creamy chicken recipes or creamy zesty risottos.

Anselmo Mendes is widely regarded as one of the greatest masters of the alvarinho grape in Portugal, and his wines set the benchmark for quality in Vinho Verde. His Muros Antigos label focuses on purity and expression, with the 2024 vintage being a brilliant example of his deft touch. Coming from carefully selected vineyards where alvarinho thrives in a cool but sunny climate, this is a wine that balances intensity with precision. The nose is beautifully aromatic, bursting with ripe citrus fruits, white peach, and a delicate floral lift, all underpinned by a distinctive wet stone minerality. On the palate, it’s crisp, fresh, and supremely elegant, with mouthwatering acidity that cuts through the juicy orchard fruit and citrus zest character. There’s a lovely saline touch, a nod to the granite soils, and a slight creaminess to the texture that makes it both refreshing and satisfying. The finish is long, pure, and impeccably balanced, showcasing everything that makes alvarinho such an exciting grape. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled seafood, fresh oysters, or a bright summer salad, this is a top-class example of Portuguese winemaking. Anselmo Mendes is at the top of his game.