D'Alma Aguardente Vinica Velha

I have never really had a second thought to Portugese wine or spirits until fairly recently which was all down to a friend from Lisbon who comes across to the UK every so often, when we exchange a bottle or two. It is usually port or red wine from his side and I normally give him a bottle of Aussie red.

The stuff I have had previously on holiday down on the Algarve, in Alvor and Lagos, have been OK but just average. However, Jorge knows his stuff and points me in the right direction.

After a previous reading of Drinks by Vincent Gasnier, the notion of a Brandy from Portugal took my fancy. A bit bored of the usual marques fro duty free, I thought I would ask Jorge to keep an eye out for me.

He could find the one mentioned inthe book but reckoned D'Alma Aguardente Vinica Velha was just as good if not better.

It is very good. Smooth, soothing and a nice aroma. Put it into a large brandy glass and swill it around to enjoy it.

You can buy it online here buyinportugal.com that also has a picture of the bottle which is also a great touch.

it is 35 Euro from that site for 50cl.