Ventozela Intro + "The List" Easter Update
For the first time in my journey I'm officially partnering up with a winery. Here's why. Plus your mini Easter update of "The List".
Hello,
I hope you have a cracking easter!
During my Year of Portugal, I’ll be introducing you to several great producers that I believe represent what Portuguese wines are all about.
From my early travels around the north of the country, there has been one in particular that has tapped into my wine brain. So much so that for the first time in my wine journey, I’ve decided to work with them officially, long-term! Why? Because this is what it’s all about - a Portuguese family doing it the right way.
Let me introduce you to Casal de Ventozela.
Wines with soul (unlike other wines in the supermarket) — fresh, bright, and seriously great value.
Here are a few of my favourites and the supermarkets to nab them from - perfect for Easter:
Majestic: CDV Arinto Crisp, zest, minerality (£9.50) (one of the most popular whites in the Majestic range)
Majestic: CDV Alvarinho Peachy, citrus, complexity (£11)
ASDA: Azul Marinho Alvarinho Juicy citrus and soft stone fruit (£6.32 mix six!)
Morrisons: Cuba Azul Alvarinho Lively, refreshing, absolutely fantastic (£10.50)
Morrisons: The Best Vinho Verde Rose Light, spritzy, and packed with red berries (£8.00)
And while we’re talking about Easter wines, here’s a mini update of ‘The List’ to have in your pocket when you do your shop this weekend!
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that I’m all about sharing wines that play a different tune at great prices with zero bullshit. I only back wines that I REALLY believe in. And that is exactly why I’m working with Casal de Ventozela. These guys are everything I love about wine: they’re all about family and are deeply connected to their history and vines, producing the sort of wines that make you happy.
They started out in the 1980s and only work with local Portuguese varieties (check out my handy guide here to get to grips with them all!). They are masters of Alvarinho and Arinto and produce their wines in the small town of Mogege, a subregion of Vale do Ave, in the heart of Vinho Verde, where they are local legends.
These guys live and breathe the region, making wines that transport you to these lush, green hills in a single sip.
So, it’s safe to say you’ll be hearing a lot more about Casal de Ventozela in the coming months. It’s a big change for me to work with a producer so officially, but if anyone is worth it, it’s definitely Casa del Ventozela. I can’t wait to help you all fall in love with them like I did.
When you think Vinho Verde, think Ventozela.
Cheers,
Luke