And the winner is...
Bacalhôa, Moscatel, Setúbal, Portugal
2004 (17.5%)
This oozes concentrated, unctuous, raisiny fruit with
some underlying, refreshing herbiness. Delicate,
tangy grape perfume lingers on the finish.
UK: £8.99–£9.99; Cmb, OWC, Tan. US: $12.50; USADM
Heading up a one-two for Iberia in the International sweet fortified stakes, this delectable sweet wine was a deserving winner, seeing off a determined Cypriot challenge in the final round. Founded in 1922 in Setúbal, just south of Lisbon, Bacalhôa Vinhos is today one of Portugal’s leading producers, acquiring prestigious estates in the Alentejo and Lisboa regions along the way. Nonetheless, the Península de Setúbal, famous for its fortified Moscatels (Muscat of Alexandria), remains at the heart of operations and is home to Quinta da Bassaqueira, Bacalhôa Vinhos’ headquarters. With José Berardo, Portugal’s biggest art collector, at the helm, the light and airy building is a dazzling showcase for both art and wine, open to the public. Framed by Berardo’s outstanding collection of Portuguese azulejos (glazed ceramic tiles), you’ll find barrels of Moscatel de Setúbal completing their ageing process.
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