Real Companhia Velha
Real Companhia Velha had some history to offer. It was founded by King D. Jose I in 1756. Ms Dora Esteves Martins, who was at this booth, shared that this is the 'oldest Port wine company' in Portugal and has over the years greatly contributed to the development of the port wine industry.Ms Dora Esteves Martins and friends |
Still wines (from Quinta de Cidro, Delaforce and Porca de Murca) as well as ports of varied styles (ruby, tawny, colheita, vntage and LBVs) were showcased during this trade show.
Previously one challenge I faced in appreciating Portuguese reds is the number of varietals which some producers generously include into a particular blend (it certainly can be one too many); and the lack of familiarity with these varietal names often added to this challenge. Such an endeavour could be perfectly justifiable from the perspective of a wine producer who appreciates what each varietal contributes and thus arrives at a composition which comes together to make a good wine in the glass; but still a challenge I must say to an overseas wine consumer trying to discover wines from Portugal.
Quinta de Cidro wines |
Royal Oporto port wines |
Chateau dÓr
It would be reasonable to say Chateau dÓr stood out amidst the alcohol supported liquid wares offered by other booths during this event. This wine company chose to offer 'alcohol free' wines.‘Why?’ was the question which went through my mind when I chanced upon this booth. The company representative explained that in markets where alcoholic beverages face challenges in terms of pricing, tax or cultural issues, ‘alcohol free’ wines offer an alternate option .
Chateau DÓr Red |