Jose Maria da Fonseca (Portugal) Periquita White 2007
A pair of lovely little wines this week, both at Waitrose: Jose Maria da Fonseca (Portugal) Periquita White 2007 These wines come from the Setubal peninsula, south of Lisbon. A blend of native Arinto and Moscatel, the white has a delicately perfumed, attractively floral nose little white flower and pear drop notes, and a subtle background spiciness. On the palate the sweetness of the fruit in this 12% alcohol wine powers through, with crisp citrus and more ripe, juicy orchard fruit notes, and good acidity. £4.99, Waitrose
Jose Maria da Fonseca (Portugal) Periquita Red 2005
A blend of indigenous Portuguese grapes Castelao, Trincadeira and Aragonez. The red offers a ripe, full-fruited nose of rich autumnal berries, a certain warming earthiness and a nicely briary, almost gamy edge. On the palate this is a red with a bit of real personality: though the fruit is a touch jammy, there’s a background of rustic, meaty flavours and tannins, and enough acidity to keep it fresh and interesting. £4.99, Waitrose