Portugal

Question 1

What are the major grapes of port and their characteristics?

Answer 1

• Touriga Nacional - the most highly praised of port varietals, small thick skinned berries add massive depth of both colour and tannin.
• Touriga Francesa - most widely planted varietal in the Douro. Similar to nacional and also praised. Has a more subtle floral character and more aroma.
• Tinta Roriz - Tempranillo, represents a large percentage of new plantings. Larger berries and bigger bunches make it a reliable producer and gives amazing results in dry years.
• Tinta Barroca - produces luscious, sweet, soft wines. Does well when blended with the more tannic varieties
• Tinta Cao - oldest varietal of the region. This grape has a small bunch and low yields but is reliable even in very poor soils, makes wines that are austere in their youth but have massive agability. Least planted in valley but is gathering attention as it is becoming better understood.

Question 2

What is the traditional source of Madeira’s distinctive flavour profile?

Answer 2

The long shipping journey. 650km west south west of Portugal by sail boat would allow the wine in cask to experience highs and lows of temperature and develop