CR&F celebrates Christmas with limited editions

CR&F, the centenary brand of spirits, is presenting two special editions designed for the Christmas season, combining history and excellence. The Aguardente Velha CR&F Reserva pack pays homage to Dona Beatriz and Mr Henrique, workers from the 1950s who created two of the brand’s icons: the red seal and the rope that seals each bottle. This pack includes a bottle of Aguardente Velha CR&F Reserva and a balloon glass, ideal for tasting the balanced aromas and flavours of this brandy, which combines notes of citrus fruit, nuts and chocolate.

The CR&F Reserva Extra Pack highlights a brandy aged for six years in French oak, accompanied by a Schott Zwiesel tulip glass, designed to enhance the complex aromas of this premium brandy. Both editions are perfect for gifting or sharing, bringing to the table the best of a Portuguese brand with more than 125 years of tradition, present in more than 20 countries.

Priced at €19.89 and €49.95, these brandies celebrate not only Christmas, but also Portugal and the legacy of quality that CR&F has maintained since 1895.

Vinha Mãe returns at Christmas time

The iconic Chocapalha Vinha Mãe 2019 is back, reaffirming its position as one of the great references of Quinta de Chocapalha, in Alenquer. Named ‘Vinha Mãe’ for being the origin of everything that came after, this wine pays homage to the first plot of vines planted by the parents of Andrea and Sandra Tavares da Silva, the second generation to lead the estate. The debut of this reference dates back to the year 2000, and now, with the 2019 vintage, the legacy continues.

This unique wine is the result of a carefully crafted blend of three grape varieties: Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz. The grapes come from 35-year-old vines cultivated in a bilateral cordon system. After harvesting and destemming, the grapes undergo pre-fermentation maceration at low temperatures for eight hours. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in lagares over eight days, followed by malolactic fermentation and ageing for 22 months in French oak barrels.

Chocapalha Vinha Mãe 2019 has an intense, opaque colour and rich aromas of forest fruits, black cherry and spices. In the mouth, it reveals a remarkable concentration, combined with an elegance that culminates in a long and persistent finish. With the oenological signature of Sandra Tavares da Silva and Miguel Cavaco, this wine is the ultimate expression of the connection between the land and human dedication.

Available in selected wine shops and on restaurant menus, Vinha Mãe 2019 keeps alive the tradition and excellence that define Quinta de Chocapalha and is a celebration of the history and future of this emblematic estate.

JMF launches Wine Tourism Experience Vouchers for Christmas Gifts

With the Christmas season fast approaching, José Maria da Fonseca presents a selection of experience vouchers, perfect for surprising wine and food lovers. The suggestions include guided tours of the Casa Museu in Azeitão, premium and super premium wine tastings and even meals at the Wine Corner restaurant. The experiences are designed for different audiences, including options for couples and families.

The vouchers available include proposals such as a guided tour of the Casa Museu with a tasting of four premium wines for two people (€30.00), the family programme for two adults and two children, which combines wine and juice tasting with children’s activities and a tasting of regional products (€42.00), or the tasting of six premium wines accompanied by a selection of cheeses, sausages, olive oil and regional bread (€73.00). For the most demanding connoisseurs, the experience of tasting two exclusive moscatels for two people stands out as the most premium offer (€200).

In addition to the wine tastings, some options include meals at the Wine Corner, combining gastronomy and oenology in a sophisticated setting. The vouchers are available in José Maria da Fonseca’s online shop, accessible at https://jmf.pt/loja/, offering a practical and distinctive way to give a gift this Christmas.

From Serra da Estrela to the Christmas table: Casa da Passarella’s Christmas suggestions

Casa da Passarella, a wine producer in the heart of the Dão, presents five special suggestions to celebrate the Christmas season, either at the Christmas table or as an ideal gift for this time of sharing. Combining tradition and innovation, each reference reflects the unique identity of the house, which is committed to the recovery of classic methods and the valorisation of the region’s indigenous grape varieties.

Descoberta Rosado 2023 sets the festive tone with its elegant salmon colour and aromas of exotic fruit combined with hints of cherry. Produced from the Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz grape varieties, this rosé stands out for its lightness and freshness, making it a versatile option to harmonise with Christmas starters. For white wine lovers, Abanico Reserva Branco 2022 is a blend of traditional grape varieties such as Bical, Cerceal, Barcelo and Terrantez. With citrus aromas and notes of white fruit, it has a marked freshness and a rich texture, ideal for fish or poultry dishes.

Oenólogo Encruzado 2022, a wine made 100% from the Encruzado grape variety, is a tribute to one of the noblest varieties in the Dão. Partly fermented in new barrels and cement vats, it surprises with notes of citrus, mandarin and lemon. With a vibrant body and balanced acidity, it provides a persistent and sophisticated finish.

Another highlight is O Fugitivo Barcelo 2022, an exclusive reference that reflects the uniqueness of the O Fugitivo range. With expressive aromas of white fruit and lychee, it has a full-bodied and elegant profile, with a long and memorable finish.

Finally, the red Villa Oliveira Vinha das Pedras Altas 2017, from vines over 90 years old, combines grape varieties such as Baga, Alfrocheiro, Touriga Nacional and Alvarelhão. Aged for 36 months in a wooden vat, it stands out for its intense red fruit aromas, balanced freshness and a long, elegant finish, promising great longevity.

These proposals from Casa da Passarella are an invitation to celebrate, bringing wines of great character to the table, capable of elevating any festive occasion and creating unforgettable memories.

Cockburn’s brings adults-only Father Christmas back to Bolhão Market

The Christmas season is officially open and, for the second year running, Cockburn’s, the historic port house of the Symington family, is returning to Bolhão Market in Porto with a special initiative dedicated to adults. In the festive spirit and with a good dose of humour, the brand is presenting ‘Cockburn’s Santa’, a unique Father Christmas, exclusively for the over-18s, who promises a relaxed and vinous experience.

Straight from the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, this different Father Christmas invites visitors to an unforgettable selfie and, of course, a special toast. In 2023, the action served three thousand tastings in just three days, and this year it aims to go even further. Andrew May, Cockburn’s brand manager, explains: ‘The aim is to create a relaxed activity with a sense of humour for adults. Why not have a Father Christmas to take photos, make wishes and, at the end, toast with Port wine?’.

Visitors will have the opportunity to taste two emblematic Cockburn’s references: the Special Reserve, a classic that peaks in demand during Christmas, and the Tawny 10 years, a more complex wine that reinforces the versatility of the house. In addition to the tastings, the brand is offering discount vouchers for the purchase of these references, encouraging visitors to take a bit of the Christmas spirit home with them.

The experience, which includes photography and free tasting, is available at the emblematic Bolhão Market and promises to attract all those looking to celebrate the Christmas season in an original and memorable way. The action thus reinforces the link between Porto tradition and Port wine, in a perfect combination of culture, humour and gifts.

Christmas suggestions from Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo and Taboadella delight wine lovers

Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, located in the heart of the Douro, and Taboadella, in Silvã de Cima, in the Dão, have launched an exclusive set of offers for this Christmas season, reflecting tradition and care for the land and heritage. These special options promise to surprise lovers of the world of wine, enriching moments with family and friends.

At Quinta Nova, there are elegant boxes that include emblematic wines such as Quinta Nova Reserva Touriga Nacional 2022, with aromas of violet and wild berries, and Quinta Nova Reserva Blanc de Noir 2023, a vibrant and unforgettable white made from red grapes. Another suggestion is the classic Grainha Reserva 2022, a red that reveals the strength of the Douro terroir with fine tannins and spicy aromas. Taboadella, with a Roman soul and roots in the Dão, suggests Villae 2022, a fresh and elegant wine that reflects the richness of the local grape varieties, as well as the distinctive Grande Villae 2021 white, a complex and firm specimen that highlights the vibrant acidity of the region. These exclusive selections are available in wine cellars and are the perfect gift for providing unique experiences and toasting the essence of Christmas.

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.