Hugo Mendes 'Lisboa' Branco

Definite greenish cast to the very pale gold colour. Inviting but subtle note of toast and struck match, combined with pithy grapefruit freshness and the merest suggestion of wild-flower honey. In some ways the aroma reminds me of Hunter Valley Semillon even though that style is not usually oaked – perhaps the combination of nuttiness and low alcohol. Smoky-sour intensity on the palate, a suggestion of toast, with a slight roundness and viscosity in the texture to balance the intense freshness (I thought the acidity was higher than the notes suggest). There's also a hint of something slightly riper but it is hard to describe, maybe yellow plum. Complex and inviting and then satisfyingly crisp and dry on the palate. Impressive depth of flavour with such modest alcohol and a sour-fresh finish. Should age very well. Mendes's wines seem to have amazing length and intensity even though they have a dancing lightness in the mouth. (Julia Harding, JancisRobinson.com)

Fernão Pires (45%), Arinto (45%) and Vital (10%).

The grapes were sourced from two chalky clay vineyards in the Alenquer sub-region which, located to the east of the Serra de Montejunto range, is relatively protected from Atlantic influence. With quality in mind, the Fernão Pires hails from a precocious, later-ripening plot that produces concentrated juice. This wine was naturally fermented (the Fernão Pires and Arinto co-fermented) and underwent a partial malolactic fermentation, contributing to its creamy texture. Around 30% of the blend was fermented and aged in used French oak barrels for seven months, imparting complexity and structure.

Serve chilled at 10-12ºC.

Seared scallops, Dressed crab 'Sapateira recheada' or Bacalhau à Brás.