Sarah Ahmed's Selection


The lion’s share of Portuguese wines are blends, but this sophisticated trio features two single varietal reds and a superb out-of-the-box white blend, vinified in 140l clay pots. 

Known for his winning ways with clay, Pedro Ribeiro reckons Herdade do Rocim Clay-Aged White 2022 is his best yet.  Made from Verdelho, Alvarinho and Viosinho, it has uncommon precision and finesse.

Negra Mole is unique to the Algarve.  Shown respect, this traditional workhorse can produce a thoroughbred.  With beautiful fruit and classy French oak, João Clara Wines Negra Mole 2020 is poised and stylish.    

Tending to red fruits and smooth tannins like Negra Mole, Castelão has been dubbed ‘warm climate Pinot Noir.’  The plushest examples of all hail from Palmela DOC’s poor sandy soils. Made from centenarian vines, Pegos Claros Grande Escolha 2017 is intense, layered and lithe. 

Sarah Ahmed