TN: It's not easy being green

Anselmo/Mendes “Andreza” 2005 Vinho Verde Alvarinho (Portugal) – Lime, lemon and grapefruit with a razor-spritz of acidity. Fresh and lively, this wine brightens up the room and the palate at the same time. As befits a varietal alvarinho, however, it does it with more force and intensity than is typical from the appellation. (3/07)

TN: Feital don't fail me now

Quinta do Feital “Auratus” 2004 Alvarinho/Trajadura (Minho) – Intense, sun-drenched but brightly crisp and tangy lemon, ripe green apple, and melon flavors with a saline edge and dusted bivalves around the borders. Vivid enjoyment. (2/07)

TN: Albariño a ring

RE.6135 PO “Burgáns” 2005 Albariño (Rías Baixas) – Clean, refreshing lemon-lime juice with stickier grapefruit and sweet apple notes, plus a lingering descant of makrut lime. This is balanced and pure, growing in intensity as food demands, but simple and sweetly pretty by itself. (2/07)