King

touriga nacional known for its light, flowery aroma and the solid structure it affords its wines. try quinta de cabriz 1999 touriga nacional dao ($24) or calheiros cruz's 1999 touriga nacional-tinta roriz douro ($26).

trincadeira preta offers a concentrated color and strong notes of blackberry. cortes de cima's well-rated reserva 1997 ($45) is a blend of aragonez and trincadeira. -

getting there

getting there
fly into lisbon and equip yourself with a wine routes guide from the tourism office at the palacio foz, praça dos restauradores. portugal's wine regions have no organized approach to wine tours, so don't count on signs or local resources to find your way. use this map to plot your approach.

where to stay
consider one of the state-run country inns called pousadas, each of which has an individual personality and flair.

reservations can be obtained at www.pousada.pt/index.html. here are a few along the wine route.

pousada da rainha santa isabel
estremoz, 011-351-268-332-075
originally a palace built by a king for his beloved wife, this pousada in the alentejo offers a pool, piano bar, restaurant, battlements to explore, and easy access to the charming streets of estremoz. from $134.

pousada de são pedro
tomar, 011-351-249-381-159