Last
Thursday, we came to Essencia do Vinho to not only conduct our very first workshop on social media and blogging, but to also participate in the “Top 10 Vinhos Portuguesas”. But before we list the wines, we both want to make it clear that although these wines are considered the creme de la creme of Portuguese wines at this one contest on this one day, please let it be known that these wines only won a jury prize. The wines were all tasted blind, and generally in this setting, some wines do not ’show’ well. In fact, we both rated wines that we tend to enjoy lower than we might otherwise. 10 whites, 27 reds and 5 ports were poured in 2 hours, with the expectation that all 20+ judges judge objectively. We find this task silly in that the conditions are not conducive to how we drink wine normally, but an interesting practice all the same. Take the winners with a grain of salt, and know that with maybe one or two exceptions, all the wines poured were interesting and worthy of the prize!
That said, just because these wines are considered the “best” should be of no reflection of what you enjoy. We would much rather have you continue to explore wines from across Portugal, regardless of points, awards and medals, savoring those flavors and styles that appeal to you. Hence, although we will list the Top 10 Wines of Portugal, please know that these wines are simply a small sampling of the wonderful wines that Portugal has to offer!
Final note, Ryan sat next to Jose Penin and found themselves in a small tete-a-tete over the quality of certain wines! 
According to the results, Ryan wins! Shhh, don’t tell Jose!
From catavino.net
