3rd edition of CR&F XO Fine & Rare: exclusivity in a bottle

From the Vinhos Verdes Demarcated region comes the 3rd edition of the CR&F XO Fine & Rare brandy. Considered one of the best Portuguese spirits, CR&F has a long legacy in its DNA with more than a century of tradition. This third edition, bottled in 2023, has just 5,496 bottles in exclusive packaging. For connoisseurs, it is now possible to find it in wine cellars from the north to the south of the country.

In a constant search for perfection and the best batches of national spirits, the desire to create this brandy was born. For its creation, a long process of selecting old batches was necessary, from which spirits of various ages were selected, with the main batch being over 40 years old. This final blend results from the distillation of several spirits from grape varieties from the Vinho Verde region, all stored over time in French oak and carefully selected. Each batch is different, with the aim of achieving and offering all connoisseurs a unique and incomparable product, respecting the aromatic versatility of its terroir.

CR&F XO Fine & Rare is a modern spirit, with a style created and marked by difference. In this third edition, CR&F XO Fine & Rare presents shades of ocher punctuated by soft highlights of green and bronze. On the nose, it is possible to notice hints of light sweet notes of fruit, which merge in complete balance with aromas of wood to produce soft and delicate perfumed notes. In the mouth, it presents itself with a deep palate, of elegance and moderation, which evokes spices in their splendor. It is a well-structured spirit with a silky final freshness.

Whether in the bottle or in the packaging, all elements represent CR&F’s care for detail – an artistically bold and irreverent bottle, slowly silkscreened in gold; a necklace, numbered to mark the exclusivity of this moment; and a case complemented by the strings and seal that have always sealed the CR&F brand’s commitment to quality and excellence.

Ideal for giving as a gift and enjoying with those you love most. Because, as tradition dictates, it is these reunions and these moments of sharing, around a good glass of brandy, that become the stories remembered in the future.

Symington family launches oenophiles club 

With privileged access to exclusive wines, wine experiences and new releases. Inspired by the memory of the Symington family matriarch, Matriarca is a community of wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and curious people – which now opens its doors to the first 100 founding members. 

All strong clans have their Matriarch. In the case of the Symington family, producers of Port wine and DOC wine for five generations, we are talking about Beatriz Leitão de Carvalhosa Atkinson, member of the first generation of the family and wife of Andrew James, the first Symington to come to Portugal to work in the sector of Port wine, in 1882. 

Beatriz, being Portuguese-British, embodies the history of Port wine; She was a master of the art of hospitality, an enthusiast for life, a lover of lunches with family and friends. Beatriz was the determined and decisive woman who made it possible to build the family business that continues four generations later. Today, it is from this that the fifth generation is inspired to launch the most innovative project at hand: the Matriarca. 

Matriarca is a community of wine lovers, gastronomy enthusiasts, curious people – a club of oenophiles. Being a member of the Matriarca guarantees you receive a bi-annual selection of specially curated wines from the portfolio of Symington Family Estates and friends as well as access to an exclusive online store. But that’s not all. With this new project, the 

Symington opens doors to your home like never before. Members of Matriarca – oenophiles club will have access to an exclusive cultural program that will allow them to visit spaces closed to the general public, as well as participate in training, new product launches, and reserve wines with special allocations. More than a wine club, Matriarca is a wine experience club. 

The Symington family is now looking for the first 100 founding members of this community. Registration must be made via the project website, matriarca-club.pt. Once the hundredth member has been found, any subsequent application will be placed on a waiting list until a new entry phase is announced, hopefully in 2024. Matriarca is, therefore, a restricted access community that is now opening its doors, for the first time, to wine lovers, to the good fork, to the curious. If you are one of them, reserve your place online now and be part of a group with privileged access to wine experiences, private events and new releases. The Matriarch is also an ode to the strong women in each family who, like ours, know how to welcome, care and nurture like no one else. Join us in this tribute and enter as if you were coming home. Discover the entire project in detail at matriarca-club.pt 

Caves Cockburn’s invites 50 people to sit “A La Mesa” 

The invitation is out. For the third consecutive year, Caves Cockburn’s – a renowned Port wine house, owned by the Symington family – once again opens its doors to 50 people for an exclusive dinner, in an initiative in partnership with Argentine chef Maurício Ghiglione, from the Belos Aires restaurant. . Repeating the formula from last year’s edition, the “A La Mesa” dinners will be “four hands on”, with the presence of four more guest chefs. The initiative takes place on the last two weekends of November, the 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th. 

Always with the presence of chef Maurício, each “A La Mesa” dinner will feature a different guest, thus creating a menu that will only be revealed on each night of the initiative. Integrating an initial moment, in which appetizers and cover are served, dinner continues afterwards, at a large table for 50 people, in the heart of what is the largest wine aging warehouse in Port in Vila Nova de Gaia. Diners thus have the opportunity to taste a menu – of five moments –, in a space with more than 10,000 oak vats. The dishes will be accompanied with wines from the Symington portfolio, and there will, of course, be space for a tasting of Cockburn’s Ports. 

André Pinto Batista, from the Lessa restaurant, is the first chef to take action at the “A La Mesa” dinners, presenting his menu on the 17th. The following day, it is Aurora Goy’s turn to introduce herself to the diners – a chef who was born and grew up in France, but has roots in Minho and Douro – arriving directly from the Apego restaurant. In the second weekend of the initiative, Pedro Braga, from the Mito restaurant, and Angelica Salvador, from Indifferent, take the reins of the improvised “kitchen” that will be created in Cockburn’s Cellars. 

Regarding the “A La Mesa” dinners, Andrew May, responsible for the Cockburn’s brand, highlights the spirit of sharing and conviviality that prevailed in the last two editions: “in addition to the fantastic gastronomic experience, it has been incredible to see a table with 50 people, with many of them arrive in groups of two or three and leave with new friends at the end of the night.” The person responsible also adds that “this type of initiative is completely in line with the personality of Cockburn’s, since for us the most interesting side of wine is precisely the people with whom we taste it”. Tickets for the initiative are now available on Eventbrite, costing 70 euros per person (plus the platform’s service fee). 

Wine lunch has Vértice sparkling wine as the main character 

Symington Family Estates and Caves Transmontanas will organize a wine lunch in which sparkling wine takes on the role of the main character. “I get a kick out of sparkling wine” is the motto of the event, which aims to demonstrate the growing importance and potential of sparkling wine, highlighting its more elegant and refined side, as well as its potential to create complex and surprising pairings. . During the event, all pairings will be made with Vértice sparkling wine, in order to demonstrate the freshness, elegance and quality of the wines from the brand owned by Caves Transmontanas and Symington Family Estates. The experience takes place on October 7th, at the Bomfim 1896 with Pedro Lemos restaurant, located in Quinta do Bomfim, in the Douro, and the reception for guests begins at 1pm. 

Lunch will feature a menu created by chef Pedro Lemos, with each dish harmonizing with one of the references from the Vértice range. Upon arrival, eel, oyster and pâté en croûte will be served, with Vértice Rosé. At the table, there will be a tasting with scallops and Vértice Chardonnay, blue lobster with Vértice Gouveio, cow maronesa, with Vértice Pinot Noir and to finish, a mille-feuille will be served, with Vértice RD. To present the sparkling wines and the Vértice universe, the event will be attended by Celso Pereira, the brand’s winemaker. This unique experience will cost 180 euros per person. Reservations can be made via email: info@bomfim1896.com. 

WineFest, an event with lots of wines for good causes! 

Condeixa-a-Nova hosts on October 7th, Saturday, from 5pm to 11pm a solidarity wine event, the proceeds of which will greatly contribute to improving the future of those who need it most, in the areas of support from the ADFP Foundation – Assistance, Development and Professional Training, non-profit social solidarity institution, owner of the host space: Conímbriga Hotel do Paço. 

Winefest 2023 is now in its fifth edition and promises to liven up the Coimbra region, a growing success that this year aims to bring together thousands of people passionate about the world of wine. And there is no shortage of good reasons to attend: there is live music, delicious cuisine for perfect pairings with the many wines on offer and a fabulous garden where you can see a unique and breathtaking sunset. 

The Conímbriga Hotel do Paço is located in Condeixa-a-Nova, just a few minutes from the historic ruins of Conimbriga, Coimbra, Serra da Lousã and Aldeias de Xisto. It is the perfect home to enjoy a visit to the central region, between history, nature, wine and gastronomy. It is a beautiful building dating from the 17th century. XVI, the former Palácio dos Almadas, where individuals of the most distinguished European nobility and royalty once lived. Destroyed in the French invasions, it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century. XX. In 1993, it became Pousada de Portugal and, since 2019, it has been a charming 4-star hotel that offers an environment of charm, refinement and the promise of a peaceful and unforgettable break, enjoying a privileged location, a large and beautiful garden with swimming pool and an irresistible Spa. 

Tickets can be purchased at the reception of the Conímbriga Hotel do Paço, at Fnac and Worten stores nationally, as well as online at www.ticketline.sapo.pt. The entry fee per person is €15, funds that will be used in social projects benefiting people in need. The ticket includes a glass for a free tasting of all wines. 

New Mutante Awards competition: Design at Wine 

The relevance of design in building the memory and history of wines is undeniable. Labels tell stories, awaken sensations and establish an emotional relationship between the consumer and the oenophile. The new ‘Design at Wine’ competition seeks to enhance this visual narrative, reinforcing the fundamental role of design in the wine sector. 

 In an initiative supported by CIEBA and Mutante Magazine, the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Lisbon launched the ‘Mutante Awards: Design at Wine’ competition. The initiative arose during the round table on the role of labels in Portuguese wines, a subject that arouses interest and generates dialogue between professionals and connoisseurs of the area. The prizes also have the collaboration of Floema, a Sustainable Signage and Equipment company, further strengthening the identity of this competition. 

 Independent designers or large agencies, producers and distributors can participate in the competition. The competition is open to anyone who wants to be present and contribute to the visual history of Portuguese wines. With different wine categories and packaging formats, there is room for the expression of different styles and approaches. 

 Therefore, this competition does not only evaluate a visually appealing design. The jury will look for works that stand out for their quality, brand expression, innovation and, especially, their ability to establish an emotional connection with the consumer. These are the pillars that will define the winners. The competition will distinguish the best in each category, not forgetting the possibility of special mentions by the jury. Three winners per category will have the opportunity to see their work recognized and publicized. 

 For more information, visit the official website https://mutante.pt/design-at-wine/ or contact us via email: design@mutante.pt. 

Cockburn’s wine tourism embellished by 10 urban artists 

Cockburn’s is preparing to once again challenge 10 urban artists to paint a mural at its facilities in Vila Nova de Gaia. The Steet Art Competition, organized by the brand since 2020, takes place on September 30th and invites the community to follow the creation of murals by the artists participating in the event. In addition to the spectacle provided by the creation of the paintings on site, the experience is also marked by the proposals of three food trucks – hosted by Rua Street Food Market – and a bar where Cockburn’s cocktails and DOC Altano wine will be served. Regarding the murals, the inspiration will revolve around Port wine, the Douro and the twin cities of Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto, not leaving creativity aside and doing justice to Cockburn’s DNA. 

This year – and like previous years – the competition will feature new competitors. They are: Theritch, Rasoal, Smile, Joram Roukes, Darren John, Tea One, NSN997, George Chionis, Mârie Balbinot, Facio and Bruta. Cockburn’s, which has been approaching a more urban audience, establishing a bridge between Port wine and graffiti, invited Paula Rezende – the winner of the last edition – to be part of the jury. It should also be added that the brand and the artist will soon launch a box of two Vintage bottles inspired by street art and for exclusive sale at the Cockburn’s Caves store. Also noteworthy is the presence of the School of Port, which will be present at the event with several free workshops on Port wine. To guarantee a place, you must register via email at schoolofport@symington.com or on the brand’s Instagram. 

Discover the work of some of the competitors here: https://we.tl/t-jxRith4dF2. 

This year’s fourth and final edition of Churchil’s Lodge Pops has arrived 

Live music, signature food and Churchill’s wines, the perfect combination to welcome autumn. Next Saturday, September 30th, the Churchill’s Caves garden, in Gaia, will bring, for the fourth time this year, the edition of ‘Lodge Pops’, an initiative that takes place during the warmer months and reflects the creative spirit present in the brand’s DNA. 

1982 Bar once again welcomes the irreverent gastronomic creations of João Ribeiro, chef of the Goela restaurant, one of the most creative gastronomic projects in the city of Porto. The menu, as usual, was designed to bring together influences from other countries and explore flavors from around the world, always in harmony with Churchill’s elegant wines. 

The afternoon menu, which starts at 1pm and continues until 6pm, includes tender shrimp pastries; Mushroom and gruyère arancini; Katsu Sando with suckling pig, orange and green salad and Brioche, fried mushrooms, slaw and teryaki sauce. For dessert there will be pumpkin pie and mountain cheese cream and chocolate, hazelnut and popcorn. The menu is completed with fresh wines from Churchill’s or a cocktail from the 1982 Bar. 

Saturday afternoon will be livened up by playlists from the house DJ, James Graham, better known as DJ Grapevinyl. In addition to its musical selection, the event features friends of James, who will make this latest “Lodge Pops” even more memorable. 

As usual, lunch will be served until the food runs out. There are tables for those who arrive first, or picnic blankets for those who prefer to enjoy the experience and the view sitting on the grass, accompanied by a stunning scenery over the Douro and the city of Porto. 

Quinta do Bomfim presents new wine tasting 

At Quinta do Bomfim – owned by Symington Family Estates for five generations, located in Pinhão –, getting to know the Douro is synonymous with tasting the best that is produced in the region. Guided tours, one of several possible options for getting to know the space, include tastings of Port wines and DOC Douro wines from the family’s portfolio, and there are new features. ‘The Specialist’ is the property’s latest proposal. 

The new tasting is made up of four excellent wines, two DOC and two Ports: Altano Reserva Branco Douro DOC, with the Viosinho variety highlighted; Quinta do Vesúvio Red Douro DOC, produced in the unique terroir of Douro Superior; Quinta do Vesúvio 1995 Vintage, with aromas of violets and rockrose; and Dow’s 30 Years Tawny, softened by three decades of aging in oak. ‘The Specialist’ test is available for 75 euros. 

For those who just want to taste the region’s wine, or who do not have the possibility to visit the entire property, Quinta do Bomfim has prepared an exclusive selection, with new combinations available. Wine Flights are the perfect solution for a quick trip through space and to discover the Douro through taste. For 25 euros, the ‘DOC Douro Flight’ tasting combines a white, from Altano, with two reds, Quinta do Ataíde and Quinta do Vesúvio. 

Vintage wines from the Dow’s brand – one of the most recognized Port wine houses, originating in the Quinta do Bomfim vineyards – are the star of the ‘Dow’s Flight’ tasting (40 euros), which includes an LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) , Dow’s 1994 Vintage and Dow’s 30 years. For 60 euros, visitors will be able to taste four excellent wines with the ‘The Specialist Flight’ option: Altano Reserva Branco DOC, Quinta do Vesúvio Red DOC, Quinta do Vesúvio 1995 Vintage Port and Dow’s 30 years old. 

Remember that, in addition to these new proposals, Quinta do Bomfim presents a selection of tastings, between 23 and 75 euros. 

These suggestions are joined by many other activities, which allow visitors to spend a day at the property, enjoying the best of the Douro terroir. At Quinta do Bomfim, it is possible to stroll through the vineyards and discover the family’s Caste Collection – a project that aims to safeguard the preservation of lesser-known grape varieties, as well as broaden the knowledge base of Portuguese and Douro grape varieties to support decisions regarding future plantations, especially in the context of climate change. Tours are available for 10 euros and include a kit so that Bomfim “explorers” don’t lack anything: a canteen with water, a straw hat, a map and even a glass of Altano Branco. 

Picnics are another activity that can complement a visit to Bomfim. The recently opened ‘Merenda na Vinha’ space offers, for 40 euros per person, a light meal, in a comfortable and familiar environment. In addition to appropriate tables, the new picnic area has blankets for more relaxed moments, a leisure area and bar service, which allows tasting wine by the glass and cocktails. Available from Wednesday to Sunday (from 12pm to 5pm), the Merenda na Vinha picnics have menus for kids and adults. 

But if you still feel hungry, Quinta do Bomfim has two restaurants: Casa dos Ecos and Bomfim 1896 with Pedro Lemos. With different profiles, both spaces are inspired by the Douro, presenting diverse menus, with regional dishes and traditional recipes, cooked in a wood oven. 

Experiences at Quinta do Bomfim are subject to mandatory pre-booking and can be booked via the website, by phone (254 730 370), or by email (quintadobomfim@symington.com). 

Herdade das Servas white and Sangiovese rosé 2022 arrive on the market 

After the white, rosé and red Monte das Servas trio, Herdade das Servas, in Alentejo, is now launching two more labels, both from 2022: the white Herdade das Servas (the white one drops the Selected Harvest mention and also changes the bottle) and Herdade das Servas Sangiovese, a single-varietal rosé. 

From the 2022 harvest as Herdade das Servas white, this reference had its first edition in 2006, subsequently launched every year in a very consistent way. The harvest is manual. Vinification began with de-stemming and crushing, followed by pneumatic pressing, with protection from oxidation. Static decantation took place for 48 hours and alcoholic fermentation, carried out by grape variety, took place in stainless steel vats with temperature control. The ‘sur lie’ stage was also carried out in stainless steel for three months. A clear, citrine-colored white, with aromas of peach, lemon, tangerine and tropical notes. It is fresh, fruity, complex, elegant and has a persistent aftertaste. A white that promises good longevity of up to a decade, to accompany salads, seafood, cheeses, fish and white meats. It is available in 750mL (€11.30) and 375mL (€5.55) bottles. 

 In the case of Herdade das Servas Sangiovese rosé 2022, until fermentation, the process is the same as for the white, and at this stage, part of the must ferments in used French oak barrels and the rest in stainless steel tanks with temperature control. Once alcoholic fermentation is complete, the wine ages ‘sur lie’ in stainless steel vats and oak barrels, using the bâtonnage technique for three months. A pale salmon-colored rosé, with aromas of raspberry, currant, pomegranate, floral notes and subtle barrel toast. Fresh, fruity, mineral and dry, it has an elegant and persistent aftertaste, ideal for salads, pastas, pizzas, sushi and white meats. In this edition, the producer added the magnum bottle format. Recommended retail prices are around €12.30 (750mL) and €34.00 (1500mL).