1 minute read
Global Wines Portugal
Cabriz Espumante/ Sparkling Brut
DÃO, PORTUGAL 2017
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Portugal may not be the first place that springs to mind in discussions about the world’s finest sparkling wines. But while few bottles reach the UK, the country actually has a lively fizz scene and this cuvée is delicious proof of how good it can be.
It’s the work of winemaker Osvaldo Amado who, whether he’s working with or without bubbles, prefers to use native varieties such as, in this case, the quality Dão white grapes Encruzado, Bical, and Malvasia-Fina .
It’s a serious, traditional-method wine, which gets 18 months on the lees and at least three months’ post-disgorgement ageing before release.
“A wonderfully toasty nose, with good ripe fruit, lovely herbaceous elements, orange marmalade and some savoury character,” the judges said.
“It has well-balanced acidity shining though at a great price point. Very complex. A real sparkling alternative and great value.”
Marta Vine
RRP £16.50 ABV 12.5%
Best Value White Wine Trophy
Wildeberg Wild House
Chenin Blanc
WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA 2022
There are plenty of surprises in this year’s Wine Merchant Top 100, but if we had been asked to place a bet on which country and supplier would be most likely to provide the Best Value White Wine Trophy winner, it’s fair to say South Africa and Boutinot would have had some of the lowest odds.
The wine that romped to first place makes full use of Boutinot’s knowledge of the South African winelands, with the company turning to leading Franschhoek-based Wildeburg Wines for a 100% Chenin Blanc, which is fermented and aged in stainless steel for maximum fruit expression.
At a time when rising costs have made sourcing good-quality sub-£10 wines increasingly difficult, the judges were all the more impressed.
“Bright and crisp, with lots of fresh green apple and pear, and nice lively acidity keeping the mouth keen and interested,” the judges said.
“A touch of tropical fruit, too: this is classic unoaked Cape Chenin that really packs a punch at this price.”
RRP £8.99 ABV 13.5%
