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Wines of the week: Cedro Do Noval 2009; Tercius Alvarinho 2012; Ramos Reserva 2012
Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy
The festive season sees many of us indulge in the annual treat of a bottle of port – but there are also some terrific table wines to be discovered in Portugal…
Sunday lunch
Cedro Do Noval 2009
A red of depth and richness from one of the oldest port houses, many now producing table wines using a traditional mix of port grapes such as Touriga Nacional, while some Syrah adds velvety spice. Good for roast game, red meats and robust casseroles. The 2007 is even more developed. £14.99, ocado.com (2009); £18.35, bbr.com (2007)
Midweek meal
Tercius Alvarinho 2012
From the Vinho Verde, made with local Alvarinho grapes but closer in style to Galician whites to the north – where it is called Albarino. No characteristic pétillance, but a fuller-bodied, concentrated white, with intense fruit flavours, lovely acidity and just a tinge of smokiness. Eat with seafood or possibly pan-fried pork escalopes. £10.99, Marks & Spencer
Bargain basement
Ramos Reserva 2012
From the up-and-coming Alentejo region, this is a robust, spicy, all-purpose, very food-friendly red, perfect for stocking up for Christmas to accompany all types of meals. £7.49 (each, for two as part of a purchase of six mixed bottles) until 3 February (normally £8.49), majestic.co.uk
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