Vinha dos Amores: Casa de Santar presents new vintages of excellence for this season

Casa de Santar, a Dão icon, is launching two new vintages that reflect the uniqueness of its emblematic Vinha dos Amores: Casa de Santar Vinha dos Amores Encruzado 2021 and Casa de Santar Vinha dos Amores Touriga Nacional 2019. These novelties, signed by winemaker Paulo Prior, reinforce the brand’s commitment to maintaining the excellence that has characterised it for over two centuries.

Located on a privileged hillside with unique sun exposure, Vinha dos Amores is Casa de Santar’s jewel, where some of Dão’s most emblematic grapes are born. With 103 hectares of vines, this plot stands out for its ability to produce wines of elegance and recognised quality, which reflect the region’s terroir and position themselves as references both in Portugal and internationally.

Casa de Santar Vinha dos Amores Encruzado 2021 is a white wine with a crystalline appearance and a citrus colour with greenish nuances. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels and a further six months in the bottle, the wine has a complex aroma with notes of white-fleshed fruit jelly. With a fresh, elegant and harmonious flavour, it is perfect with Mediterranean, Asian and African dishes. Casa de Santar Vinha dos Amores Touriga Nacional 2019, aged in French oak barrels and six months in the bottle, stands out for its intense garnet colour and aromas of forest fruits, spices and nuts. On the palate, it is structured, fruity and persistent, ideal for pairing with mature cheeses and red meat or fatty fish dishes.

As a special suggestion for the arrival of 2025, Casa de Santar presents Blanc de Noirs Vinha dos Amores Touriga Nacional 2017, a sparkling wine produced using the classic method and aged for 60 months in the cellar. With its irreverent acidity and remarkable elegance, it’s perfect for moments of celebration.

With recommended prices of between 30 and 31.50 euros, these Casa de Santar references are available on the 1990.wine platform and in the main wine shops. As well as being ideal choices to enrich Christmas tables, the wines from Vinha dos Amores are a tribute to the passion for the land and the preservation of traditions, carrying the essence of the Dão in every bottle.

The Alentejo at the table this Christmas: wines and olive oil from Casa Relvas are suggestions for celebrating the season

Casa Relvas presents proposals for toasting and savouring the most special moments of this season, highlighting iconic wines and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Christmas is approaching and with it comes the return of moments of sharing and socialising with family and friends. To enrich the table and surprise you with gifts, Casa Relvas, an Alentejo producer recognised for its respect for traditions and the land, has suggestions that reflect the best of the Alentejo. Among the wines on offer is Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Selecionada Tinto 2022, the first wine launched by Casa Relvas in 2003, which remains an unavoidable reference in the wine world, both inside and outside Portugal. For even more special occasions, Casa Relvas The Friends Collection 2019 is a unique option, created only in exceptional years and with the collaboration of the brand’s special partners.

Other proposals include Herdade de São Miguel Esquecido 2022, Herdade de São Miguel Reserva 2021 and Herdade de São Miguel Pé de Mãe 2022, wines that capture the essence of Casa Relvas and the Alentejo terroir. Coming from the grapes of the estate where the brand’s history began, these options promise to perfectly complement the moments spent at the table during this Christmas season.

This year’s big news is Casa Relvas Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2024/25, a superior category olive oil, cold extracted and produced with olives harvested from the vast plains of Alentejo. This olive oil reflects Casa Relvas’ dedication to authenticity and quality, positioning itself as the ideal accompaniment to seasonal dishes or as a sophisticated offering full of flavour. Alexandre Relvas, CEO of Casa Relvas, emphasises the link between the Christmas season and the brand’s values: ‘At Casa Relvas, we live the traditions of our Alentejo as a team and as a family. Christmas brings together the best flavours and moments at the table, which is why we suggest our wines, which will be excellent company, and the new extra virgin olive oil, a gift with the authentic flavour of the Alentejo.’

Casa Relvas’ proposals are available at the usual points of sale and are a safe bet for those who want to bring the flavour and soul of the Alentejo to this year’s Christmas celebrations.

José Maria da Fonseca celebrates 190 years with special Christmas selection

José Maria da Fonseca, Portugal’s oldest table wine producer, is celebrating 190 years of history with a special selection of wines for this Christmas. Founded in 1834 by José Maria da Fonseca, the company pioneered the production of some of the country’s most emblematic wines, such as Periquita and the renowned Moscatéis de Setúbal. Over the generations, the Soares Franco family has kept tradition and innovation alive, making the brand a symbol of quality and authenticity on the national and international wine scene.

For this Christmas season, the producer is highlighting the classic Periquita Tinto 2022, Periquita Reserva Tinto 2020 and Periquita Clássico 2014, ideal for harmonising with traditional seasonal dishes. Also present are the fortified wines Colecção Privada DSF Moscatel Roxo de Setúbal Superior 2001 and DSF Armagnac 2008, perfect with desserts, and João Pires Moscatel de Setúbal 10 years. From the Alentejo region, José de Sousa 2019 is an excellent choice, while the Espírito brandy, made from Moscatel de Setúbal, surprises the most demanding palates.

With almost two centuries of history, José Maria da Fonseca continues to be a benchmark, offering wines that are true works of art and a celebration of Portugal’s wine heritage. An unmissable opportunity to toast with wines that tell a rich story and celebrate special moments.

Quinta da Lagoalva Launches Top-Tier Wine in Large Formats

Quinta da Lagoalva, one of the oldest and most emblematic estates in Ribatejo, located on the banks of the Tagus River, has launched its top-tier wine – the Dona Isabel Juliana Grande Reserva tinto 2021 – in large formats. This estate, owned by the Holstein Campilho family since 1193, is one of the pioneers in Portugal in launching a single-varietal Syrah wine and in betting on Sauvignon Blanc.

The Dona Isabel Juliana Grande Reserva tinto 2021, previously available in the standard format, now debuts in the imposing magnum (1.5L) and salmanazar (9L) bottles. This wine, recognized by national and international critics, reinforces its prestige with a positioning that combines quality and visual impact, ideal for celebratory moments.

Produced from Alfrocheiro, Touriga Franca, and Touriga Nacional grapes in balanced proportions, the wine reflects the rigor and dedication of Quinta da Lagoalva. After an initial maceration, alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, and malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, the 14-month aging process gives it a complex aroma of dark fruits, chocolate, and vanilla, accompanied by elegant tannins and a long, persistent finish.

The large formats of this wine are ideal for festive gatherings, being not only a striking choice for Christmas tables but also an opportunity for creative reuse, transforming the bottles into decorative objects. Additionally, Quinta da Lagoalva offers other wines in magnum bottles, such as the Grande Reserva Alfrocheiro and Syrah and the Lagoalva Reserva white and red, consolidating itself as a reference among the Wines of Tejo.

Available in restaurants, wine shops, and at the Quinta da Lagoalva’s physical and online store.

Christmas suggestions from Adega da Vidigueira: Gifts that delight all profiles

As Christmas approaches, finding the perfect gift for each person can be a challenge. To help with this mission, Adega da Vidigueira has created a special guide with ideas that will appeal to all profiles, from the romantic to the host of excellence, including the funny uncle and the adventurous gourmet. All you have to do is visit the online shop.

For The Romantic, the suggestion is a soft and charming wine, perfect for toasting moments as a couple. The Charmed One will love a fresh wine. For Primo Emigrante, a typical wine from his home region is the perfect way to bring a piece of Portugal to Christmas abroad. For The Friend of Memories, a special edition is the best gift. For The Collector, a rare wine or a numbered bottle will be a valuable addition to their collection. And for The Dessert Lover, a sweet or liqueur wine is the ideal accompaniment to round off meals in style

The Host of Excellence deserves a premium wine or an elegant set that matches the style of the host. The Story Fan, on the other hand, will be enchanted by a wine with a unique narrative, whether it’s the region, the production method or the producer. For the tireless Super Mum or Dad, there’s nothing better than a special wine that symbolises all their affection and gratitude. The Adventurous Gourmet, on the other hand, will enjoy a different wine, from a lesser-known grape variety or region, which is an intriguing experience for the palate. And let’s not forget The Social Media Addict, who will be delighted by a wine with an instagrammable bottle design, or a photogenic wine tourism experience. Or The Funny Uncle will love a wine with a humorous label or a funny story. Finally, The Co-worker deserves a practical and elegant gift, such as a well-packaged bottle to unwind at the end of the day.

Vidigueira’s wines thus stand out by suggesting wines for different profiles. With options that are fresh and aromatic or full-bodied and elegant, they reflect the authentic spirit of the Alentejo and bring with them quality and versatility for any occasion. There are also suggestions for those who don’t like wine! Curious? Just go to the online shop and choose. To make your shopping easier, Adega da Vidigueira delivers free of charge to mainland Portugal for purchases over €50.

Lagoalva suggests tradition and unique flavours to celebrate Christmas

With prices starting at 27 euros, Quinta da Lagoalva’s hampers combine Tejo wines with selected products, ideal for gifts or for sharing at the table. Located in the Tejo wine region, Quinta da Lagoalva celebrates the magic of Christmas with an irresistible range of hampers combining wines and gourmet products, carefully selected to make the festive season even more special. Available in the physical shop in Alpiarça or online, these baskets range in price from 27 to 84 euros, but customers can also create personalised combinations with the support of the Lagoalva team.

For those looking for something more affordable, there are packs starting at 10.30 euros, presented in elegant cardboard or wooden boxes, with options of two or three bottles of wine. Among the proposals are the Cacao Divine chocolates with Lagoalva Smothered ganache, a limited edition exclusive to this Christmas season, which promises to win over the most demanding palates. The hampers also include a selection of products that celebrate traditional Portuguese flavours, such as extra virgin olive oil and rosemary honey produced on the farm itself. Also available are delicacies such as almonds from Better With, wine and cinnamon biscuits from Duriense, crackers from Maria Confeitaria, paio and sausage from Pata Negra, presuntito Rodrigues, cow and mixed cheeses, and salt with thyme from Loja do Sal.

Lagoalva’s offer reflects the spirit of sharing and celebration that characterises Christmas, combining the best of tradition with the sophistication of its Tejo wines. To buy the hampers or find out more, customers can visit the online shop at www.lagoalva.pt/loja-online/.

Vidigueira launches new Christmas packs

Adega da Vidigueira is celebrating Christmas with a special touch by offering a 15% discount on the Vidigueira Exclusive Pack, made up of five single varietal wines: Antão Vaz, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet and Syrah. These carefully selected grape varieties stand out in the Vidigueira sub-region, reflecting the authenticity and quality of the terroir.

The pack includes themed bags with exclusive designs that evoke the magic of the holidays, making each bottle a unique and memorable gift. Perfect for toasting with friends and family or surprising this Christmas with a touch of exclusivity and personalization.

Graham’s Cellars Offer Personalised Bottles for Christmas

Graham’s 1890 Cellars, one of the most emblematic spaces linked to Port Wine, is offering an exclusive experience this year for those who want to make their Christmas presents even more special. On 22 December, from 2.30pm to 6.30pm, an artist specialising in hand engraving will be in the cellar shop to personalise selected bottles with names, dates or special messages, creating a unique touch to celebrate the festive season.

Graham’s Cellars, founded in 1890, are located in Vila Nova de Gaia and stand out for their history and tradition in Port wine production. A pioneer in the sector, Graham’s is renowned for the quality of its wines and the exceptional ageing conditions provided by its cellars. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the brand’s legacy and taste wines in an environment that combines history, tradition and breathtaking views over the River Douro.

This event is a unique opportunity for those looking for personalised gifts and wishing to experience the magic of Christmas in the special surroundings of Graham’s Cellars. Don’t miss out on this exclusive experience, ideal for lovers of wine and Porto tradition. For more information about Graham’s Cellars, visit their official website or plan a visit to discover this emblematic space.

Quinta da Alorna Presents Christmas Offers

Quinta da Alorna, which recently celebrated its 300th anniversary, invites wine lovers to toast to Christmas with proposals that combine tradition and sophistication, reflecting the best of the Tejo region. The suggestions for this festive season include wines and products that promise to surprise friends and family.

Among the highlights is the Abafado 5 Years, a fortified wine produced exclusively from the Fernão Pires grape variety. With an intense aroma of honey and dried fruits, this wine was recently awarded a Gold Medal at the 2024 Selections Mondiales des Vins competition in Canada, and is included in the competition’s TOP50. Its unique fermentation process, where it is ‘smothered’ with wine spirit, and its five-year aging in oak barrels give it a smooth texture, ideal for accompanying traditional Christmas desserts.

Quinta da Alorna also proposes the Reserva Touriga Nacional & Cabernet Sauvignon, with an intense aroma and perfect for harmonizing with the traditional Christmas turkey, and Reserva Arinto & Chardonnay, an elegant choice to accompany codfish on Christmas Eve.

For those seeking a different gift, the Alorna Chocolate Box combines chocolate bonbons filled with two of the house’s most emblematic wines: the Reserva Touriga Nacional & Cabernet Sauvignon and the Abafado 5 Years Fernão Pires. This is a gift that promises to conquer both chocolate and wine lovers, uniting intense and sophisticated flavors.

Quinta da Alorna’s wines and products can be purchased at the estate’s physical store in Almeirim, in the online store, and in major retail stores.

Casa Relvas and Xutos & Pontapés celebrate album 88 with special edition