The Hot Ticket This Summer: The Best Wines of Portugal

Portugal's varied Atlantic climates and a crop of younger, innovative winemakers produce a wide range of wine styles: light, crisp whites from the north, bold reds from the south, and a mix of other styles in between. The country’s large number of native grape varieties offer unique and enticing aromas and flavors. 

One Spanish wine journalist, Santi Rivas, has had to admit his country is no longer the best value-for-money wine country in the world. “It is Portugal,” he writes, “another state with a fascinating catalog of wines, that now holds the honor of selling great wines at really affordable prices.” This wonderful situation, great for when you order wine online, may not last forever.  Portuguese wines “are increasingly reaching higher levels. This is how an infrastructure is created; if good wines start to appear, they attract the drinker's attention, functioning as a catalyst for interest, an appropriate spark.” 

Wine Entusiast chimes in: “Much of this variety is driven by young winemakers who relish the chance to craft great wines (often blends) beyond Port, Madeira and a few legendary bottlings. They’re not restrained by tradition, but they also never forget their vinous roots.” Barry, the seasoned wine buyer at Bottle Barn, assures us that all Portuguese wines are now a hot ticket among customer from Sonoma, the Bay Area, and even tourists. Don’t forget to try some when you next buy wine online. 

There are big names who provide fantastic quality across a range of wine styles. This includes 2022 Niepoort Docil Vinho Verde and on the other end of the robustness spectrum, if you like Port, 2019 Niepoort Vintage Port. 

But there’s a lot more than Port at the best wine store USA. The true value, Wine Enthusiast suggests, is in the $20–$40 range. The selection of excellent wines available at a fraction of the price of almost any other region is astonishing. 

Here’s some other ideas: 

Super White Wines from Portugal

• 2022 Joao Portugal Ramos Alvarinho: This 100% varietal Alvarhino is elegant and engaging, with a touch of white peach skin on the palate and a long mineral finish. 
• 2021 Luis Seabra Vinhos Granito Cru Alvarinho: Note the aromas of lemon peel, green apple, lemongrass, and seashells. On the palate, this wine has impressive weight combined with laser-focused acidity.
• 2023 Brisa Suave Vinho Verde Branco: Encounter melon, citrus, and stone fruit flavors with a slight effervescence. Perfect for Summer!!!
• 2021 Quinta de Santiago Vinha Do Chapim Alvarinho: hints of citrus, lychee, and orange blossom lead this rich, full-bodied, and persistent, Alvarinho that also boasts a refreshing and minerally. 

Innovative Red Wines from Portugal

• 2018 J. Portugal Ramos Vila Santa Reserva: An organically produced red blend including Cabernet Sauvignon. “Vanilla and spice are present along with dark chocolate and black-plum fruit flavors,” says Wine Enthusiast.
• 2019 Divai Alicante Bouschet: dark plum and berry notes with a subtle hint of oak frame this full-bodied wine with ample yet fine tannins; a cellar selection.
• 2016 Esporao Quinta dos Murcas Reserva: A red blend popular at Bottle Barn with enticing black fruit falvors, balsamic aromas, such as rock rose, and hints of spices; barrel aged.
• 2020 Prats & Symington Post Scriptum de Chryseia Douro: a 56/33 blend of Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional, also boasting a bit of Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca. Aged for 12 months in used French oak, the skilled winemakers produced an elegant blend. “It is for those who appreciate a little freshness and understatement more than big fruitiness,” says Wine Advocate. 

As Portugal's wines continue to gain recognition for their exceptional quality and affordability, now is the perfect time to explore this diverse and exciting wine region. From refreshing Vinho Verde to robust Douro reds, Portugal offers something for every palate. At Bottle Barn, we are proud to feature a selection of these outstanding wines, ensuring that our customers have access to some of the best value-for-money wines in the world. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Portuguese wines promise a delightful and rewarding journey. Don't miss out on these remarkable wines – explore our collection today and savor the unique flavors and aromas that Portugal has to offer.