Quinta do Vallado

After years of great write-ups and public apathy, we think 2009 might be the year that Portuguese wine really captures the imagination of restaurant and bar-goers. So it's pretty exciting for us to be able to offer you wines from what we believe is the most dynamic winery in the region. Despite having a history that stretches all the way back to 1716 when it was established by D. Antonia Adelaide Ferreira (whose descendents still own it today), it is moving forwards apace. Despite the global economic climate Vallado has just invested 7 million Euros in new vineyards and a new winery that will be ready for the 2009 vintage. The new vineyards will be planted with traditional varieties as well as some experimental Syrah.

Late 2008 saw the launch of Adelaide, a wine originating from the oldest Vallado vineyards (more than 100 years old!), made up of more than 40 different grape varieties and it will only be produced in outstanding vintages. Only 1600 bottles of the 2005 vintage were made. Another exciting new release this year is the Moscatel Gallego which is a beautiful aperitif wine, full of freshness and light floral flavours. On top of these new wines, the existing range continues to turn heads and win awards wherever it goes. Former IWC Douro Trophy winner, the Touriga Nacional wowed a Decanter tasting, being pronounced the best Douro wine under £20 and the Douro Reserva 2005 grabbed a spot in the 'Top 100' for 2008 in both Wine & Spirits USA and Wine Enthusiast Magazines. The intensity and big flavours of these wines are unmistakably from the Douro, but the thrilling freshness and drinking pleasure mark them out immediately as Vallado.