Loios, J. Portugal Ramos, Alentejo, 2008

[Brian C.]

This wine is a blend of Aragones, Trincadeira, and Castelao. It has a 14% ABV. (According to the producer's website, the 2009 has 13.5% ABV, interestingly enough.) I figured for $8 it was worth a try. Last night, when I first opened it, it was a bit out of whack acid-wise. After a little while the wine started to reveal itself, and the acid left center stage. The fruit showed up well, though there was some of the high ABV taste that I can't seem to describe, but I notice it often enough when I try a higher ABV wine. I don't know if I imagine this phenomenon or if it's real, but it's there often enough in a 14% ABV wine. I think the 13.5% for 2009 is a step in the right direction. Aside from all that I've said here, $8 is a good price, and it went great with my Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese tonight, but for the higher ABV Alentejo red, for only a few dollars more, I'd definitely go with the Tinto da Anfora.

[Andy Velebil]

TJ's often stocks some decent Portugal wines that are a darn good value. Unfortunately their selection is very store selective and can't be found in all areas. I haven't seen this one at the store near me but sounds like a decent bottle for the price. I'll have to keep an eye out for it, or the 2009.

[Brian C.]

Sorry the post wasn't clear, but only the Mac and Cheese was from TJ's. (I absolutely love their Mac and Cheese.) I found this bottle at a place called Wine Discount Center, which has a few locations around Chicagoland. I have seen it around elsewhere, though I can't remember where else off the top of my head. I think this store is cheaper than most others I've been to. I got a bottle of Twisted there for only $14, which is less than the usual $16-18 I see it selling for in the few places that carry it here.

My TJ's doesn't stock many Portuguese table wines, aside from the $4 Espiral Vinho Verde that I've always been fond of. It does have the 2007 Quarles Harris VP that has been discussed here, though.

[Andy Velebil]

In that case I won't check my local TJ

As for their $4 Vinha Verde, I agree with you that it's a darn good bottle and even more so when you consider how inexpensive it is.