The 'Três Bagos Reserva white 2021' (€8.49) is faithful to the genesis of the 'Três Bagos' brand, resulting from the traditional Douro art of blending, in this case, three grape varieties: Viosinho, Gouveio and Rabigato. In addition to this, it combines grapes from farms – owned by shareholders of Lavradores de Feitoria – located throughout the three sub-regions of Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo and Douro Superior. A marriage of two trios, where age matters, with the vines being over 30 years old. With aging “divided” between stainless steel and barrels, this is a white that can be drunk on its own, ideally accompanied by good conversation and as an aperitif to a meal, but it is at the table that it reveals its full potential, when paired with more elaborate salads; a newly fashionable shrimp cocktail; oily fish; cod; octopus and white meats. An all-terrain pairing, in which vegan and vegetarian dishes are welcome. A bright white, with a citrus straw color. On the nose, it reveals aromatic power, intensity and elegance. Mineral, full of fresh fruit, such as pear and pineapple, it also highlights citrus and some vanilla, which gives it complexity. On the palate, the entry is fresh, full of fruit and with excellent acidity. It promises longevity.
As the name suggests, 'Três Bagos Sauvignon Blanc', now in the 2021 harvest (€10.99), is a single-varietal, which in itself falls outside the 'Três Bagos' concept, but which embraced its identity, being born as the result of an experiment that would later turn out to be a success story, and which it has never lost! This white wine is expressed by the fresh aromas intrinsic to the variety, which when combined with aging in French oak barrels gain structure, which dictates a good aging capacity. Made from vines aged between 25 and 30 years, it has a bright lemon-citrus colour. With an exuberant nose, it is quite aromatic and fresh. It displays notes of tropical fruit, such as pineapple, contrasting with white-fleshed fruit, such as melon, complemented by slight vegetal nuances reminiscent of asparagus. In the mouth, it reveals itself to be very fruity and balanced. It has good acidity, supported by flavors of ripe fruit, with some tropical notes, which characterize it and give it balance. Its finish is long and persistent. This is the ideal wine to drink as an aperitif, on its own, or at the table, with salads, fish dishes, seafood and sushi. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians, it is the perfect companion for summer lunches with family and friends.
