Let’s talk wine...
J is for Jaen Jaen is just one of many indigenous Portuguese grape varieties that makes Portugal an ideal country to explore new wine tastes. This early ripening red grape is found mainly in the Dao region. It’s soft berry flavours also blend well with the structure and complexity of Touriga Nacional and the blackberry and spice of Alfrocheiro Preto. The dark berry, spicy Touriga Nacional is also at home in the Douro Valley where it is a component of both Port and still red wines. If you are a fan of Rioja, then look for Portuguese bottles bearing the names of either Tinta Roriz (in Douro and Dao) and Aragonez in the Alentejo region. Both are local names for Tempranillo, the key player in many a Rioja. The Baga grape is found mainly in Bairrada. Its tannins and acidity require TLC both in the vineyard and winery but it is capable of producing intense wines capable of aging. Producers to try: Dao: Sogrape, Quinta Das Maias, Quinta Dos Roques, Douro: Quinta Do Crasto, Quinta De La Rosa Alentejo: Esporao, Joao Portugal Ramos Bairrada: Luis Pato Gift vouchers/places are available for Carols next WES Introductory evening class and 1 day workshop from www.wine-education-service.co.uk For more information on wine tastings, courses and events in Aberdeen go to www.wineuncorkededucation.co.uk or call Carol on 01224 312076 Carol Brown carol@wineuncorkededucation.co.uk
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Carol is an Aberdeen based member of the Association of Wine Educators and the Circle of Wine Writers. e : gazette@fsmail.net