October 01, 2008 (Wed): Today is the break of Ramaddan, Hari Raya, and many Muslim families seem to be having fun outings.
Last night A. and I wondered what to pair with our dinner - spinach linguine, little grilled chicken wings and a tofu salad. I thought about the Monte do Castanheiro that was introduced to Singapore - frankly, I don't know when. It was very good recalling Portugal while sipping it, even if it didn't really match the salad and linguine.
Portugal is tranquil, laid-back, very historic and romantic. I recall strolling along Douro River, thoroughly soaking in the sunset at Pousada de Santa Marinha (Guimarães), picking up ripe big tangerines from the ground, exploring Coimbra and totally being gripped by the melancholic fado. I enjoyed getting lost in the oldest university of Europe in Coimbra. Portugal’s charm, simplicity and beauty are deeply edged in my memory. Two of my two trips there were worthwhile. I am thinking of going to Madeira and Lisboa (again)- it should be some time not so soon.
I'll have a week to remember Portugal while enjoying this vinho tinto from Alentejano. It's from Borba, famous for its reds. Unlike many of the indigenous varieties, this one is a blend of Trincadeia, Aragonez, Castelão, Alicante Bouschet and Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a very silky texture, a lovely bouquet of fruit, sometimes I taste my favorite fruit, cherry, in it. Finally it exudes a hint of spices. It's got a good balance.
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