Handford Wines

The Douro River Valley of Portugal has the distinction of being the world's first "denomination d'origine controlee," famous for its wines since the age of the Roman Empire. In more recent centuries, the valley has become best-known for Porto, the sweet, high alcohol wines that the British love so well. Ramos-Pinto, a native Portuguese shipper respected the world over for its excellent port wines, recently decided to reclaim the Douro's older heritage and introduce a table wine from this great wine-growing region. Duas Quintas is a blend of grapes from two very special Ramos-Pinto vineyards. Quinta da Ervamoira lies in a rocky, low altitude area on the banks of the river Côa. Here the grapes grow to full maturity in the hot, dry weather, contributing density and body to the blend. About 20 miles away lie the granite-filled vineyards of the Quinta dos Bons Ares. Situated at a higher altitude, the grapes here derive fresh aromas and lively flavors from the cooler growing conditions, adding a lively vivacity to the finished wine. Duas Quintas offers the best qualities of these diverse growing regions in a red wine with fresh fruit flavors, rich complexity and excellent balance.

The Wine

A classical mineral laden effort from this famous estate. Always good acidity and plenty of concentrated yellow stone fruit. Great for white meats.

Single Bottle: £9.99

In a case of 12: £9.49