On Monday, 2 November 2026, UKSA members and guests gathered at The Caledonian Club in London for an exceptional session: Alvarinho from Monção and Melgaço – Our Side of the Story.
Photo Credit: Vinhos Verdes
Given the talent involved, this promised to be a particularly high-profile masterclass, and it delivered on every front. The tasting was led by Tiago Macena MW, who achieved an extraordinary milestone this year as Portugal’s first Master of Wine. Reflecting the stature of the event, we were delighted that the UKSA members in the room included three UK Sommelier of the Year Champions: Romain Bourger (2019), Alexandre Freguin (2018), and Emma Denney, current UK Sommelier of the Year 2026.
Photo Credit: Vinhos Verdes
Initial attendee feedback has praised the afternoon as a truly fabulous and insightful exploration, highlighting Tiago’s command of the terroir and the high calibre of the flight. We extend our immense gratitude to Vinhos Verdes for partnering with us to deliver such a memorable event.
The Distinct Character of Monção and Melgaço
While Vinho Verde is celebrated for its bright, approachable profile, Monção and Melgaço occupies a unique geographical position. Situated on the banks of the River Minho and buffered by protective mountains, it experiences warmer summers and colder, drier winters than coastal zones. This climate allows Alvarinho to achieve full phenolic maturity while preserving vivid natural acidity and mineral tension.
An Unrivalled Tasting Selection
Photo Credit: Vinhos Verdes
Spanning granitic slopes, alluvial soils, lees work, and oak aging, the eight-wine flight highlighted the extraordinary versatility and cellar potential of the variety:
Adega de Monção – Deu-la-Deu 2025
Quinta de Santiago – Vinha do Pisco 2025
Soalheiro – Granit 2025
Quinta de Paços – Casa do Capitão Mor Reserva 2024
Constantino Ramos – Afluente 2024
Miguel Queimado Vinhos – Vale dos Ares Vinha da Coutada 2022
Anselmo Mendes – Torre 2020
Márcio Lopes – Pequenos Rebentos Cuvée Bruto 2023
The session made a compelling case for Alvarinho from Monção and Melgaço as one of the world’s benchmark whites.
Our sincere thanks once again to Tiago Macena MW, our attendees, and Vinhos Verdes for a stellar masterclass.