In Portugal, the term “Vinho Verde” does not refer to the colour of the wine, but to the youth and freshness of the landscape it comes from. In this corner of the world, where the Atlantic blows its salty breeze over emerald-green hills, Pássaros by Anselmo Mendes is born. A white wine inspired by the small birds that inhabit the vineyards and whose flight seems to celebrate the liveliness of Portuguese nature. We are in the heart of Minho, the northernmost region of Portugal, an area characterised by granite soils and abundant rainfall that keeps the land fertile and vibrant. Anselmo Mendes, affectionately nicknamed “Mister Alvarinho”, chose two prime areas for this blend: the sub-region of Monção and Melgaço, protected by mountains, and the Lima Valley, more exposed to ocean influence. This combination creates a unique microclimate where the grapes ripen slowly, preserving sharp acidity and aromas of rare intensity. For Pássaros, the blend is equally divided: 50% Alvarinho and 50% Loureiro. Alvarinho brings body, structure and those typical white-fleshed fruit notes. Loureiro, on the other hand, is the aromatic soul of the blend, capable of releasing elegant floral aromas reminiscent of bay leaf and orange blossom. Together they form a perfectly matched pair, where the power of one balances the delicacy of the other. The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed to extract only the finest juice. Fermentation takes place at very low temperatures to “trap” the most delicate and volatile aromas. After vinification, the wine rests for at least three months on its fine lees with regular batônnage. This step gives the wine the roundness that makes the sip velvety despite its pronounced freshness. Bright straw yellow with light greenish reflections; on the nose it clearly recalls fresh citrus fruits, lime and grapefruit, followed by a bouquet of white flowers and a hint of green apple. On the palate it is lively and energetic. The granite minerality is immediately noticeable, accompanied by a citrus persistence that instantly invites another glass. A wine that never becomes tiring – in fact, it gives an extra boost to the evening. Excellent with sushi and sashimi, but it also works beautifully with an octopus and potato salad, where the mineral notes enhance the flavour of the sea.