2010 Barco Negro Branco Duoro, Portugal 'Branco'

About This Wine

Most grapes grown in the Douro region of Portugal are used to make Port.

Most... but not all. For exhibit A, we give you the 2010 “Branco,” a delicious white blend from Barco Negro. This light and refreshing table wine was crafted from three grape varieties normally destined for Port: Malvasia Fina, Gouveio and Viosinho.

Blending comes naturally at Barco Negro, as the label is overseen by Francois Burton, a fifth-generation winemaker from the Bordeaux region of France. In Bordeaux, single-variety wines are rare; almost all of the bottlings are crafted from at least two and often three, four or five varieties.

In the case of the Barco Negro “Branco,” the blending was intended to achieve an engaging floral aroma, ripe fruit flavors and a refreshing mouthfeel — a wine that could be savored solo on a hot summer day, or served alongside light seafood dishes. Two words from our tasting panel: mission accomplished.

About White Blend

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:40% Malvasia Fina, 40% Gouveio & 20% Viosinho
• Grape Source:Douro Growing Region of Portugal
• Aromas & Flavors:White Flowers, Ripe Pear and a Hint of Citrus
• Aging Vessels:Stainless Steel Tanks
• When to Drink:Now Through 2014
• Food Pairing Suggestionlight seafood dishes.

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