reblog

Portugal is renowned for its wine and its history of winemaking goes back centuries. Their red wines are bold and unique and reflect the terroir of regions like Douro, Alentejo, and Dão. Whether you’re a wine newbie looking to try new things or a seasoned wine lover, Portuguese reds are a must-try. Here are 6 of the best red wines from Portugal, all of which you can buy online from Bottle Barn, where wine delivery is just a click away.

1. 2022 Quinta do Vallado Douro Vinho Tinto

One of the most famous estates in the Douro Valley, Quinta do Vallado has been making wine for centuries. The 2022 Quinta do Vallado Douro Vinho Tinto reflects their commitment to quality and old tradition. This wine is a blend of several Portuguese native grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Touriga Franca.

Deep ruby in color with aromas of red berries and spices, this wine is complex and balanced. The palate is rich with dark fruits, cherries, and subtle oak notes that are perfect to pair with grilled meats or robust dishes.

The 2022 Quinta do Vallado Douro Vinho Tinto is available online to buy from Bottle Barn where you can taste Portuguese wines in the comfort of your own home.

Keynotes:

• Region: Douro
• Grape Varieties: Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca
• Buy wine online at Bottle Barn

2. 2021 Mary Taylor Filipe Ferreira Douro

The Douro Valley is again home to some of Portugal’s most famous wines and the 2021 Mary Taylor Filipe Ferreira Douro is another. This wine has the depth and elegance of the region but with a modern twist that will appeal to international palates.

Deep color with aromas of dark plums, violets, and a hint of minerality. Balanced acidity and fine tannins make this wine very food-friendly. Whether you’re dining in or celebrating a special occasion the 2021 Mary Taylor Filipe Ferreira Douro is a great choice. You can purchase this wine online from Bottle Barn.

Keynotes:

• Region: Douro
• Grape Varieties: Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão
• Buy online

3. 2022 Silk & Spice Red Blend

For a wine with a story the 2022 Silk & Spice Red Blend is inspired by the ancient Portuguese maritime trade routes to Asia. This wine is a blend of Portuguese varietals like Touriga Nacional, Baga and Alicante Bouschet resulting in a smooth and spicy red.

On the nose the Silk & Spice Red Blend has notes of ripe berries, cinnamon and nutmeg. On the palate it’s velvety with flavours of red fruit, vanilla and a hint of spice perfect to pair with hearty stews or barbecued meats. The 2022 Silk & Spice Red Blend is available now to buy directly online from Bottle Barn.

Keynotes:

• Region: Dão, Bairrada
• Grape Varieties: Touriga Nacional, Baga, Alicante Bouschet
• Buy online and order wine delivery from Bottle Barn

4. 2022 Casa Ferreirinha

Casa Ferreirinha makes some of the best red wines in Portugal and the 2022 Papa Figos Douro Tinto is one of them. From the Douro region, this red is a blend of local grapes Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional. A full-bodied wine with fruit-forward flavours and earthy undertones.

Flavours of ripe berries, subtle spice and a hint of oak. Grilled meats, hearty stews and strong cheeses. If you want to try Portuguese red wine, this is a must-try. Available to buy on Bottle Barn.

Keynotes:

• Region: Douro
• Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional
• Buy online

5. 2022 Bacalhoa JP Azeitao Red

The 2022 Bacalhoa JP Azeitao Red is a fruity wine from the Setúbal Peninsula, a region famous for its full-bodied reds. This wine is a blend of Castelão, Syrah and Aragonez resulting in a bold and approachable red with rich fruit flavours and a smooth finish.

On the nose the JP Azeitao Red has aromas of ripe cherries and blackberries with subtle hints of spices and vanilla. On the palate it’s well balanced with soft tannins and a pleasant acidity perfect for everyday drinking or special occasions. The 2022 Bacalhoa JP Azeitao Red from Bottle Barn is available online and is the USA’s go-to wine store for Portuguese wine.

Keynotes:

• Region: Setúbal Peninsula
• Grape Varieties: Castelão, Syrah, Aragonez
• Buy wine online at Bottle Barn

6. 2016 Esporao Quinta dos Murcas Reserva

Last but not least we have the 2016 Esporao Quinta dos Murcas Reserva a premium red from the Douro Valley. This wine is a tribute to traditional Portuguese winemaking using old-vine Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Amarela grapes.

Black fruit, earthy notes and leather aromas this wine is complex and deep. Full bodied with firm tannins and a long finish. Cellar for a few years or drink now with a rich meal.

Keynotes:

• Region: Douro
• Grape Varieties: Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela
• Buy online at Bottle Barn
   

Portuguese reds are a journey through history, tradition and exploration. Whether you want to buy wine online for a special occasion or just to try something new these six wines are a taste of the best of Portugal. From the everyday Bacalhoa JP Azeitao Red to the luxurious Esporao Quinta dos Murcas Reserva there’s something for everyone. Try one of Portugal’s best red wines online at Bottle Barn today and taste Portugal for yourself!

Japanese food is an art form, delicate and subtle. Knowing what to look for, pairing wine with Japanese food is a treat. With Japanese flavours so unique and subtle, wine pairing can be tricky, but you can find the right wine for your favourite dish. Whether popping into an online wine shop or ordering wine online here are a few great options to pair with Japanese food.

Best White Wine for Japanese Food

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp wine with bright acidity and citrus notes when paired. Its acidity cuts through rich raw fish and gives a flavour fill to the delicate flavours of sushi and sashimi. The fruitiness of Sauvignon Blanc also goes well with ingredients like seaweed and wasabi.

Riesling

Riesling with its high acidity and food friendliness is a close second to Sauvignon Blanc as the go-to white for Japanese food. Whether it’s fruity and dry or slightly sweet with honey notes, Riesling has a wine for Japanese food. It smooths out salty and umami rich soy sauce dishes and the bite of tempura like miso and spicy fish. Riesling’s honey notes also work well with spicy dishes like spicy tuna rolls, a tame and pleasant ride to the burn.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a good match for richer Japanese dishes. Chardonnay with a hint of oak brings buttery notes and creamy vanilla and tropical fruit. These flavors enhance the salty and slightly sweet flavors when paired with teriyaki and grilled or marinated food. Whether grilled or seared tuna the earthiness of Chardonnay with red berry fruit is a good match. For heartier dishes like miso marinated black cod the complexity of Chardonnay builds and enhances the umami. When thinking of pairing wine with steamed dishes without a strong salty soy flavour, Chardonnay is a go-to wine.

Best Red Wines to Pair with Japanese Food

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir, light to medium bodied reds are a good match for many Japanese dishes. Whether sushi or sashimi or another Japanese delicacy this wine is a light, low tannin wine with substance for a good night of drinking. Perfect for grill or sear this red pairs well with fish, steak, chicken, duck or pork. Because it can handle acidic flavours and gets out of the way it’s good with spicy dishes. Essentially, Pinot Noir is a wine you can drop into pairing anytime with Japanese food. Often associated with light to medium bodied reds Pinot Noir’s match with Japanese food is as easy as that. Elevates citrus, vinegar and lighter soy dishes this red pairs with yakitori, grilled fish or sashimi.

Beaujolais

Beaujolais, made from the Gamay grape, is one of the most food-friendly red wines. With its vibrant acidity and fruity character Beaujolais is the red with the most food versatility. Paired with the salt that goes into soy-based or teriyaki-glazed dishes, the fruity, acidic flavors of Beaujolais is a great match for salty or meaty dishes. It also works with most vegetable dishes like vegetable tempura or tofu stir fry.

Zinfandel

Zinfandel, made with the Zinfandel red grape, is a bold wine with good tannin and peppery notes and a round and robust body. When paired with its ripe fruit flavors, higher-than-average alcohol, and bold body enhance the savory and slightly sweet flavors. Considered a red wine, it’s versatile and can be treated as a red or white wine. For hearty beef, pork or savoury Japanese cuisine Zinfandel pairs well with Asian inspired dishes. If your meal is oily, fatty or deep fried consider pairing a wine with higher alcohol to cut through the fat and offer a delicate balance.

In conclusion pairing wine with Japanese food can elevate your dining experience by highlighting the subtle and complex flavours the dishes have to offer. For crisp acidity Sauvignon Blanc is a good choice. If you prefer a sweeter wine Riesling is versatile and can work with most Japanese cuisines. If you prefer reds though Pinot Noir, Beaujolais and Zinfandel are always good options as there are balanced tannins in these for a good match. Visit an online wine shop like Bottle Barn and buy wine online and have it delivered to your location for your next Japanese meal. If you are a wine enthusiast my recommendation for buying wine online is to add some variety to your wine collection. Whether you are a savvy wine buyer or you are new and still in the learning stage wine selection and consumption will be a breeze.

The world of red wine boasts a multitude of grape varietals, each contributing unique characteristics to the final product. Among these, Petit Verdot (French for "little green") stands out for its bold personality and ability to elevate blends. While often playing a supporting role in Bordeaux's prestigious wines, Petit Verdot is increasingly gaining recognition as a single-varietal gem. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your exploration, this guide delves into the world of Petit Verdot, equipping you to discover its hidden depths.

What is Petit Verdot Wine?

Petit Verdot grapes are known for their late ripening and thick skins, resulting in wines with intense color, robust tannins, and concentrated flavors. Think deep purple hues in the glass, followed by aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry. Hints of violet, earth, and even a touch of bell pepper can add intrigue to the bouquet. On the palate, Petit Verdot delivers a full-bodied experience with firm tannins and lively acidity. As Master of Wine Jancis Robinson puts it, Petit Verdot "adds flesh, colour, and structure to blends, but can be a bit gruff on its own." This "gruffness" is precisely what makes Petit Verdot so captivating in single-varietal expressions, offering a powerful and age-worthy wine for those who appreciate a bolder style.

Petit Verdot Wine Food Pairing

Petit Verdot's bold character demands equally robust food pairings. Grilled meats like ribeye steak or lamb chops stand up well to the wine's tannins. Hearty stews, rich mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses all become delightful companions. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing Petit Verdot with portobello mushrooms or lentil stew. Experiment and discover what excites your palate!

Petit Verdot Wine Tasting Notes

Now that you're armed with the basics, let's delve into specific red wine bottle examples that showcase the potential of Petit Verdot. Here are two exceptional bottles to consider:

Opaque Petit Verdot: This alluring red wine bottle hails from Washington State, a region known for its ideal climate for late-ripening grapes like Petit Verdot. Founded in 1998 by Jayson Woodbridge, Opaque produces a single-varietal Petit Verdot known for its depth and complexity. The wine boasts a nose of black cherry, plum, and earth, complemented by subtle hints of spice and leather. On the palate, expect a full-bodied experience with firm tannins and a long, lingering finish.

Jeff Runquist R Squared Petit Verdot: Journey north to California's Napa Valley, where Jeff Runquist produces a stunning expression of Petit Verdot red wine bottle. Runquist, a highly acclaimed winemaker, crafts this single-varietal wine from meticulously sourced grapes. The R Squared offers a captivating bouquet of dark fruit, cedar, and violets. The palate is full-bodied and structured, with integrated tannins and a hint of spice.

Finding Your Perfect Bottle: Online Wine Stores to the Rescue

Due to its limited production, Petit Verdot can sometimes be challenging to find on local shelves. However, the world of online wine stores offers a convenient solution. These platforms provide access to a vast selection of wines from across the globe, including those featuring lesser-known varietals like Petit Verdot.

Here are some of the advantages of using online wine stores:

Wider Selection: Browse through a curated selection that goes beyond what your local store can offer. You'll find a wider variety of Petit Verdot wines available to explore at online wine stores.

Competitive Prices: Compare prices from various online retailers to find the best deal on your favorite Petit Verdot.

Convenience: Through the online wine store USA Selections, you can order your chosen Petit Verdot from the comfort of your home and have it delivered directly to your doorstep.

The world of wine is a journey of discovery, and Petit Verdot offers a unique and exciting path for the adventurous palate. With its bold flavors, firm tannins, and impressive aging potential, Petit Verdot is a wine that demands attention. So, the next time you're looking to expand your wine horizons, consider seeking out a bottle of Petit Verdot. Explore the options available at online wine store USA selections and prepare to be surprised by the power and complexity this little grape can deliver. For those who enjoy the ease and convenience of online shopping, buy wine online through a reputable online wine store in the USA. These online stores offer a vast selection of Petit Verdot, allowing you to compare prices and find the perfect bottle to suit your taste and budget.

Do you enjoy exploring unique and bold wines? If so, be sure to check out our other blog posts for recommendations on exciting varietals and up-and-coming wineries! We have a great selection of Petit Verdot red wine bottles available to buy wine online at so don't hesitate to explore and discover your new favorite! And don’t forget to check our blog page for many different stories.

France, a country synonymous with exquisite wines, might seem out of reach for everyday enjoyment. But fear not, wine lovers!  A delightful selection of French wines awaits, offering incredible quality and captivating flavors, all for under $20.  This guide explores some hidden gems from various French regions, perfect for those seeking a taste of French wine finesse without breaking the bank.

Exploring the Bounty of French Wines 

France boasts a rich winemaking history dating back centuries.  Diverse climates, grape varietals, and production methods contribute to the vast and exciting world of French wines. From the crisp white wine bottles of the Loire Valley to the bold red wine bottles of Bordeaux, there's a French wine to suit every palate and occasion.

Finding Your Perfect French Match: White Wines 

Let's embark on a journey through some exceptional French white wines, all available for under $20:

1. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc: This Rhône Valley white wine, typically a blend of Viognier and Roussanne grapes, offers a delightful bouquet of apricot, honeysuckle, and peach. The palate is full-bodied and expressive, with flavors of stone fruits and a hint of minerality.  Enjoy it with a creamy pasta dish, grilled fish, or a fresh goat cheese salad. Explore online wine stores or visit your local wine shop to find this delightful white wine bottle.

Clos du Mont-Olivet Cotes du Rhone Vieilles Vignes:  Another gem from the Rhône Valley, this white wine is crafted from Grenache Blanc and Clairette grapes.  Expect a more savory profile with notes of pear, almond, and a touch of white pepper.  The palate is well-balanced with refreshing acidity, making it a great pairing for seafood, salads, or lighter chicken dishes.  Look for this white wine bottle at your local store or browse online retailers specializing in French wines to buy wine online.

Jean Perrier et Fils Savoie Roussette Cuvee Gastronomie:  Venture to the eastern region of Savoie and discover the beauty of Roussette.  Made from the Altesse grape, this white wine showcases aromas of acacia flowers, citrus, and a touch of honey.  The palate is crisp and refreshing with flavors of pear and apple, leading to a lingering minerality.  Enjoy it with a cheese board, charcuterie, or light appetizers. Order wine online to discover this unique Savoie white wine bottle.

Gustave Lorentz Riesling Reserve:  Travel to Alsace and experience the classic expression of Riesling.  This dry white wine boasts a captivating bouquet of citrus, white flowers, and minerality.  The palate is lively and balanced, with flavors of lemon, lime, and a touch of honey.  Riesling pairs beautifully with pork dishes, Asian cuisine, or a creamy cheese fondue. 

A Toast to French Reds: Bold Bottles Under $20 

Now, let's explore the world of French red wines, where quality meets affordability:

Domaine de la Madone Beaujolais-Villages Le Perreon:  From the Gamay-dominant Beaujolais region, this wine offers a vibrant and fruity expression.  Expect aromas of red berries, cherries, and a hint of floral notes.  The palate is light-bodied and refreshing with juicy red fruit flavors and a touch of spice.  Enjoy it slightly chilled with a charcuterie platter, grilled chicken, or a summer picnic.  Look for this Beaujolais-Villages red wine bottle at your local wine shop or explore online retailers specializing in French wines to order wine online.

Domaine Les Grands Bois Cairanne Maximilien:  The southern Rhône Valley offers this Grenache-dominant red wine.  Expect a bouquet of ripe plums, blackberries, and a touch of herbs.  The palate is medium-bodied with smooth tannins and flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of earthiness.  Enjoy it with grilled meats, hearty stews, or aged cheeses. 

Domaine de Gouye Gabouillon Syrah:  This Southern Rhône Syrah offers a bold and expressive experience.  Expect aromas of black pepper, black fruit, and a touch of smoke.  The palate is full-bodied with robust tannins and flavors of blackberry, plum, and a hint of earth.  Pair it with grilled steaks, roasted lamb ...or hearty mushroom dishes.  While some of these wines, like the Domaine Les Grands Bois Cairanne Maximilien, might require a little extra effort to find, the online wine store world offers a wealth of options to buy wine online. 

Exploring French wines goes beyond just the taste.  Each region boasts a unique culture and history intertwined with its wines.  As you delve deeper into these affordable French wines, consider researching the regions they hail from.  Perhaps you'll discover a hidden gem you'd love to visit someday and experience the magic of French winemaking firsthand.

Bon Appétit!

French wines under $20 prove that enjoying a taste of French finesse doesn't have to break the bank.  With a diverse range of styles and flavors to explore, you're sure to find a new favorite.  So, raise a glass, savor the experience, and let these delightful French wines transport you on a delicious adventure.  Don’t forget to visit our blog page to learn and discover more with new topics every week!

Berkin BIRSEN

Wine Author

A novel ideology is emerging in the dynamic wine industry, promising a closer relationship between the vine, the winemaker, and the planet itself. Beyond the domain of organic methods, biodynamic wine creates a tapestry that honors the interdependence of nature, lunar cycles, and heavenly rhythms. This ideology gives wine an energy that some say goes beyond the ordinary, and it hints of celestial powers.

The principles of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, who supported a healthy coexistence between agriculture and the natural environment, serve as the basis for biodynamic viticulture. Viewing their vineyards as self-contained ecosystems, biodynamic farmers believe that every component, including the soil, insects, and even the phases of the moon, is essential to the health and personality of their grapes.

Biodynamic farming approaches go beyond organic farming, which concentrates on doing away with artificial fertilizers and pesticides. To energize the land and encourage biodiversity, vintners use specifically prepared biodynamic preparations, which are frequently created from manure, quartz, and herbs. These preparations are administered in a rhythmic manner, in accordance with the lunar and planetary cycles, with the assumption that these celestial effects might augment the vines' vitality.

Organic wines are undoubtedly a start in the direction of sustainable viticulture, but biodynamic methods go beyond in taking a comprehensive approach. This is the difference between these two philosophies:

Beyond the Lack of Chemicals

The focus of organic wine and farming is the lack of artificial chemicals. On the other hand, biodynamics actively encourages biodiversity and soil health by using biodynamic preparations.

Using a rhythmic approach, biodynamic activities are based on planetary cycles and the lunar calendar. Preparations are made during astronomical periods.

Also, biodynamic vineyards work to create self-sufficient ecosystems by encouraging a healthy balance inside the vineyard and using natural means to combat pests.

Why Choose a Biodynamic Wine?

Biodynamic wine proponents contend that these methods produce more colorful and expressive wines. They contend that concentrating on the quality of the soil encourages better plants, which in turn provide grapes with a more complex and concentrated taste profile. Furthermore, biodynamic farming techniques emphasize the importance of terroir—the distinct qualities of the vineyard's soil and environment.

A subtle energy character, a sense of life and connectedness to the land that goes beyond the strictly physical sensation, is another attribute that some fans think biodynamic wines have. Whatever the precise cause, those looking for a distinctive and all-encompassing approach to winemaking have developed a devoted following for biodynamic wines.

The Rise of Biodynamic Wines

Thanks to Rudolf Steiner's efforts, the biodynamic movement had its start in the early 20th century. But in the winemaking business, biodynamic methods did not become popular until the 1980s. Biodynamic wines are becoming more and more popular because of the pioneering work of vintners like Manfred Krankl in Austria and Nicolas Joly in France, who implemented these ideas in their vineyards.

Here are a few exceptional examples to tantalize your palate:

Le Clos du Caillou Vieilles Vignes Cuvee Unique, Cotes du Rhone Rouge: The Southern Rhone Valley biodynamic mix has a bright scent of black fruit, spice, and earthiness. There are hints of cherry, spice, and little minerality on the full-bodied, well-structured tongue. Buy wine online and discover the harmonious interplay of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre, all cultivated using biodynamic principles.

Burn Cottage Moonlight Race Pinot Noir: This biodynamic Pinot Noir red wine from the Anderson Valley of California has a lovely fragrance of earthy, rose petal, and red cherry flavors. Vibrant fruit flavors coexist with subtle spice and forest floor notes on an exquisite and smooth tongue. Experience the expressive nature of this biodynamic wine by ordering wine online.

Bodega Chakana Estate Selection Malbec: This biodynamic Malbec hails from the sun-drenched hills of Mendoza, Argentina. It has a deep red hue with an alluring aroma of cherry, blackberry, and violets. With hints of chocolate, earth, and black fruit, the palate is full-bodied and deep. Order wine online and savor the bold personality of this biodynamic Malbec, a testament to Argentina's commitment to sustainable winemaking.

Davis Family Vineyards Russian River Valley Chardonnay: This white wine is a compelling example of biodynamic Chardonnay from California's famed Sonoma Coast. Aromas of juicy pear, citrus flower, and a hint of honeysuckle enchant the nose. The palate is exquisitely well-balanced, with lively fruit notes entwined with faint minerality and a whisper of wood. Place an online wine order and discover the elegant complexity of this biodynamically crafted white wine.

Porter Creek Russian River Estate Pinot Noir: This exquisite biodynamic expression is crafted by Porter Creek, which is tucked away in the center of California's Pinot Noir paradise. The wine has a lovely aroma with notes of violets, red fruit, and forest floor. The palate is delicate and silky, with layers of plum, spice, and cherry that are offset by a hint of earthiness. Discover the possibilities of biodynamic cultivation in producing a genuinely excellent Pinot Noir by buying wine online.

California residents, rejoice! We offer convenient wine delivery in California, allowing you to receive your chosen biodynamic wines directly at your doorstep. Simply buy wine online and let us handle the rest.

For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of biodynamic wines, we encourage you to explore the Bottlebarn blog page. Here, you'll find a wealth of information on biodynamic practices, specific wine regions, and expert pairing suggestions. Cheers to exploration, sustainability, and the exquisite world of biodynamic wines!