João Portugal Ramos is one of the primary figures in the development of Portuguese table wines over the past 20 years. As a consultant, he has played a significant role in the development of some of Portugal’s most notable wines. Still, Portugal suffers from a lack of reputation… not a bad one… not a good one… just no reputation. For most consumers, the wines remain a mystery. Which means you get a deal... how is a $40 wine a deal? Uh, because it drinks like $100!

Quinta da Vicosa is Ramos' newest project. They were planted 20 years ago after Ramos was drawn to the site because of its limestone soil. You've heard about limestone before... it's the not-so-secret ingredient for great wines, resulting in fresh acidity, fine tannins and bright flavors. In a warm region like Alentejo, this is particularly important. For this wine, Ramos selects two different grape varieties to work with - one indigenous and one "international". Each vintage is a different blend. Always delicious, they have jumped to the next level these past two offerings.These are just too delicious and too interesting to miss!

Oh, and currently, we are the only retailer in the country offering this wine online!

João Portugal Ramos Quinta da Viçosa T-M 2015

Sale $39.99 / Mix Six $34.99

94 pts Wine Advocate

An equal blend of Touriga Nacional and Merlot aged for 12 months in new French oak. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. This is a terrific one this year, with mid-palate finesse that makes it seem ethereal, fine flavor and a velvety texture. It is supported by moderate and controlled tannins, but there is a real backbone here. It is fresh and lifted all the while, finishing with bursts of flavor but always dry and serious, never a fruit bomb. (Aug. 2017)

When last seen, this was in great form and looked superb. I especially love the way it has become more expressive, with a juicy finish and a bright feel. It is equally powerful and much more fun to drink now given its development. Keep cellaring it for another couple of years, although you can approach it now. It will continue to evolve well for more than another decade and hold well for a while after that. (Aug 2018)

João Portugal Ramos Quinta da Viçosa A-S 2017

Sale $39.99 / Mix 6 $34.99

95 pts Wine Advocate

An equal blend of Aragonez (Tempranillo) and Syrah aged for 12 months in new and mostly American oak. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. up front, this is more notable for its power, concentration and finesse. Deep and intense, this very young blend is hard to fully appreciate because it is so tight, so closed and a bit hard-edged. Yet it has great fruit, sensual texture and the ability to age. This is special, and it should become more so with time. The only thing missing is time—to pull in the wood and moderate the tannins. It may hit peak more around the mid-2020s. It will age very well, so there's no rush. (Aug. 2019)

What to pair with? Hearty dishes like sausage and peppers, roasted lamb or beef stew would be lovely. And if you were in Evora, capital of the region? According to their tourism office, “Alentejo tradicional cuisine has, as a base, pork, lamb and bread. Always the bread. In special, older people never have a meal (not even a not at all traditional pasta) without a little bit of Alentejo bread.” Fresh herbs are an essential ingredient, including cilantro, mint and oregano along with the staples of olive oil, garlic and onion. Perhaps their most famous dish is Pork and Clams. Don’t wrinkle your nose… just look at this picture! And click for a recipe!


Or reply. The wine arrives Friday afternoon in Chapel Hill. Hillsborough, as ordered, Saturday.