£11.95, Davy's
Portugal isn't as known for its dry white wines, other than Vinho Verde, as it deserves to be. Dão is certainly much more familiar for its reds, but this branco is exactly what I like about Portuguese whites: medium-full and quite succulent with a lip-smacking, almost bracing salty mineral character, juicy lime and herb flavours and a hint of spicy white pepper. The grape varieties are Encruzado, Malvasia and Verdelho and part of the key to the wine's quality and character is the altitude of the vineyards: they lie at 700–800 metres in the beautiful, mountainous Serra da Estrela sub-region of Dão. It's a great match for fish and seafood, especially pan-fried and grilled, but also goes with salads, cheese, including soft goats' cheeses, and works naturally as an aperitif.
Casa Da Passarella Somontes Branco 2017, Serra da Estrela, Dão, Portugal
£11.95, Davy's