Cheap & Cheerful

A feature wherein I share a good deal I happen upon...be it wine, food, or just something fun...If you have something Cheap & Cheerful you'd like to share, leave a link or suggestion in the Comments section at the end of this post!  Enjoy!




Well aware that I run the risk of beating a dead horse here, with all the going on (and on) about days gone by, in Portugal...I'm going to chance it.  After all, some damn fine stuff comes out of that country.  Specifically, or for today's purpose at least:  Wine.

More specifically, Vinho Verde.  And most specifically, Twin Vines Vinho Verde, from JM Fonseca.


(Side bar:  I hate to be that guy.  But I have to throw this out there.  I have a little pet peeve about mispronunciation.  Let's blame my mother, for all her grammar corrections throughout my growing up.  Anyway, this is Portuguese...not Spanish.  Say it this way:  Veen-yoo Vaird.  Not, please, Veen-oh Vair-day.  I know, I am so sorry.  Looks like I am that guy.)


Anyway, I happened upon the Twin Vines, at Fred Meyer recently.  Those of you who know me, know that I am a sucker, and I mean sucker, for a vinho verde, so of course I had to try it.  Did I mention that it was on sale for a mere $6.99?  Oh, yeah, baby.  Love a steal.


Vinho Verde translates, literally, to green wine.  It doesn't refer to grape color, but rather the youth of the grapes.  A very subtle effervescence is the result of using these young grapes.  Not nearly as bubbly as a sparkling wine, just a wee bit of lift, really.  Light, fun, and perfect for summer socializing.  

Or lunch with the Mister on a weekend.

Go out, try some.  It's not quite as cheap as we used to get it in the Algarve...I believe 400 escudos was the going rate on a vinho verde back then (yup, pre-Euro), about $2 a bottle.  Justifiably dangerous temptation, for certain, when it's that cheap and cheerful.  Don't worry though, the under $10 Twin Vines won't corrupt your morals, or your bank account.  


PS - I'll have a recipe for that bread in the photo for you all soon.  Yum.


PSS - Mom, I do have excellent grammar, thanks to you.


Saude!