Portugal
A July trip to Lisbon is a warm one, perfect for Óbidos and Lourinhã in a praça in the evening. We didn't let the warm weather deter us from the big bold reds, however.
A delicious dinner at Ramos needs a crisp Alvarinho to complement the seafood, cheeses, and cured meats. This Vinho Verde is bright and citrus-y, minerally and some fresh almost tropical fruit. Located about 45 miles from the sea, I do get some coastal influence and crisp salinity that pairs so well with the food, if not just enjoyed on its own.
In a delightful tasting room, Wines of Portugal, just off the Praça do Comércio in Lisbon, we sample wines from across the country in a Corivin-style tasting room and shop. From the light whites to the deeper tanic Touriga Nacionals of Dão, it was a fantastic self-guided tour, all within the cool cave away from the summer sun.
Up a steep hill on a smaller praça, Madame Bacchus offers a great selection of very local wines (as well as a few French wines, a homage to her heritage). We watch the world go by and enjoy some fresh whites.
Located just north of Lisbon, Página Sauvignon Blanc is fresh with some vegetable notes and hints of exotic fruit with a slight toastiness.
The Chocapalha Viosinho is also not far from Lisbon