Lagar de Darei "Private Selection" Branco '18

We’ve passionately supported the wines of Casa de Darei for many years. Each year, and with each new release, we continue to be impressed with the improvements and overall quality of the wines. As we’ve noted before, the Dão region of Portugal is probably the region with the greatest potential in Portugal. The region’s wines are concentrated and rich, with a balance and freshness that adds to their uniqueness.

The 2018 “Private Selection” is a blend of Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Cerceal, Bical, and Verdelho. The fruit comes from just under six hectares of estate vines. The grapes are hand harvested, sorted for a selection of the best bunches, destemmed, and crushed, and the must is then aged in concrete on its lees. The result is a wine full of pretty aromas of pineapple skin, orange, and mineral. The “Private Selection” is medium in weight on the palate, with a long, dry finish. Refreshing, complex, and a steal at the price point. Fans of this winery and Portuguese wines in general should not miss this new release.