Portuguese Wines Masterclass with Simon Woods

Join us as we investigate a country that is innovating its' light wine industry to change the stereotype that Portugal is only good for Port.

The Atlantic Ocean on the Western fringe of Europe is the dominant factor in this country's wine production providing various conditions for a diverse mix of grapegrowing. In the mountainous north we find the region of Vinho Verde, a cooler area, famed for its' zesty and spritzy white wines. The famed Douro Valley is also important for full-bodied reds as well as the traditional Port-styles whilst to the south the district of Dao is on everyone's lips, producing elegant lightly-oaked reds of distinct quality, from grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (Spain's Tempranillo). In addition Bairrada is an up-and-coming district with exciting varieties such as Baga (red) and Bical (white). In the south we find Ribetajo, Alentejo and the Algarve (so good that Cliff Richard has a winery here called Vida Nova!) all capable of producing interesting and complex wines.

Simon Woods - winner of the inaugural Online Wine Columnist/Blogger award at the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers' Awards - will lead us through a fascinating tasting of some of the best wines the country has to offer, including a top quality white wine from the Douro, six fantastic reds from a variety of regions and grapes plus a delicious late harvest Moscatel wine and Blandys Rich 5 year old Madeira.

With the usual cheeses and cold meats to complement the wines

Places Available: 7

Course Date/Time: Thu 17th May 2012 at 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Duration: 2 hours

Venue: Jurys Inn Hotel Manchester