Paid Partnership with Vinhos de Lisboa

This year I was happy to discover a new (for me) wine region - Wine region of Lisboa - on two occasions, in summer on a trip to Dorset coast and in winter, right in the heart of London.

Lisboeta, a gorgeous Portuguese restaurant, hosted a tasting that transported guests straight to the heart of Portugal. The occasion? A celebration of the Wines of Lisboa, an exploration of the diverse and characterful offerings from this Atlantic-influenced wine region. From sparkling whites to robust reds, the event was a vivid reminder of Portugal’s wine heritage and how the wine region is a true hidden gem!

The Lisboa region, stretching along Portugal’s central coastline, offers a rich tapestry of wines influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic and at Lisboeta, these wines took centre stage. So, what were the highlights?

Whites with a coastal kiss
Lisboa’s whites, marked by their bright acidity and mineral elegance, were perfectly showcased. Guests delighted in the AdegaMãe Vital Vinhas Velhas 2020, a white that brought the region’s essence to life with its citrusy complexity and vibrant saline finish. The Quinta Folgorosa Sauvignon Blanc 2022 added a refreshing tropical note, while the CSL Alvarinho Oak Aged offered nuanced flavours of stone fruit and subtle oak.

Reds to savour
Lisboa’s reds captivated with their richness and depth. The Quinta de São Sebastião Grande Escolha stood out with its robust structure and dark berry notes, while Quinta do Gradil Tannat offered an intense yet balanced experience, with its ripe tannins. The 12 Knights and Anfora de Baco further showcased the region’s ability to produce reds that are both fruit-forward and elegantly spiced.

No celebration of Portuguese wines is complete without indulging in the richness of fortified wines. The Villa Oeiras Carcavelos 15 Years enchanted guests with its layers of caramel, nuts, and dried fruit. For something truly special, the Aguardente Quinta do Rol XO delivered a luxurious finale, its smoothness and complexity a testament to Lisboa’s mastery of spirits.

Food and Wine: A Perfect Marriage

Lisboeta’s menu was designed to elevate the wines, each dish reflecting Portugal’s culinary heritage. The Empada ‘vinha d’alhos’ paired delightfully with the spicier reds, while the Mushroom Açorda and Paleta showcased the versatility of Lisboa’s whites. Every dish amplified the wines’ nuances, making the evening a sensory journey through the Lisboa region.

Ultimately, this tasting underscored the rising interest in Portuguese wines, particularly Lisboa’s hidden gems. As we reflected during the event, bringing Portugal’s vibrant culinary and viticultural traditions to London isn’t just about food or drink, it’s about creating a sense of home.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or someone looking for an introduction to Portugal’s treasures, the Wines of Lisboa and Lisboeta’s warm hospitality make for an unforgettable pairing.

For more about Lisboeta and their wine offerings, visit their website or follow along on Instagram for updates @vinhosdelisboa