Portuguese wines are good and affordable

We are lucky. In many countries, wine choices often are limited to those produced in that country. But U.S. wine shops carry wines from around the world. Many of those have become staples, especially to those seeking good wines at budget prices.

Portugal, a relative newcomer to the list, has long been known for its port wine, a rich, delicious libation to be served at the end of the meal. But now a number of Portuguese wineries are producing bottles to be enjoyed with the meal. They're good and affordably priced, making these recent arrivals worthy of our attention.

Examples of some of Portugal's best reds include Quinta do Casal Branco Robatejo, Sogrape Dao Callabriga, Falua Conde de Vimioso, Companhia das Quintas Morgado Santa Catherina, Dao Sul Quinta do Gradil and Dow Vale do Bomfim.

Produced from grapes unique to Portugal, with names like Aragonez (also known as Tempranillo), Touriga Nacional, Castelao and Trincadeira Preta, these special reds bring their own personality to the dinner table. Some are light and easy on the palate; others are rich and full-flavored. But all I've tasted are consistently good and sometimes very good.

The best Portuguese white wines are the vinho verdes produced in the Minho region of northwestern Portugal. Refreshingly clean and crisp, two of my favorites are Casa de Vila Verde Vinho Verde and Aveleda Alvarinho Vinho Verde. The Alvarinho is similar to Spanish Alvarinos, another recent arrival in America's wine market.

Pair the reds with poultry or meats such as lamb or cube steak. The whites can be served as aperitif wines or as complements to shrimp, grilled fish and salads made with tuna.

In Portugal, you can grab nice table wines for as little as $3 per bottle, but here prices are slightly higher: $8 for Casa de Vila Verde; $10 for Quinta do Casal; $13 for Alveda; $14 for Companhia das Quintas; and $16 for Sogrape. The other three are $12 a bottle.