Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the 2019 JM Fonseca Periquita Reserva (Terras do Sado, Portugal) – $15.49 regularly $18.99).
José Maria da Fonseca started his namesake company in 1834 in the Setúbal Peninsula, Portugal’s stunningly beautiful coastal region situated about 40 min SW of Lisbon. Starting with the production of the sweet fortified wine, Moscatels de Setúbal for which Fonseca helped earn the D.O.C. for, he quickly garnered a solid international reputation. Forward thinking and adventurous, Fonseca made history in 1850 when he bottled the first still Portuguese red wine from his Periquita vineyard. The then King of Portugal so liked the wine that he bestowed the royal order on him.
Two centuries later, the sixth generations head winemaker, Domingos Soares Franco, along with his team of enologists, have undertaken a wide range of research, experiments and innovative techniques that continues to shape and progress Portuguese viticulture.
Periquita was Portugal’s first bottled wine. Made with the native Castelao grape, it is extra dry and medium-bodied, with licorice, mushroom and fig flavours and balancing acidity. Medium tannins provide structure on the finish. The Atlantic Ocean in the west and southwest surrounding Setubal expresses its influence on this wine. Ruby in colour with aromas of vanilla, oak, blackberries, strawberries, currants, violets, and plums. The palate has good acidity, the presence of soft tannins and good persistence. Pair with meat dishes, game or firm cheeses.
2019 JM Fonseca Periquita Reserva (Terras do Sado, Portugal) – $15.49 (regularly $18.99)