Anselmo Mendes is, simply put, one of Portugal's most revered winemakers. A native son of Monção (which, along with neighboring Melgaço, where his cellar is located, is one of the top Alvarinho crus in the country), he hails from an agricultural family that, like most in the area, dabbled in wine for household production. It wasn't until after university studies in agronomy that he began to specialize in wine, studying in both Portugal and France and enjoying a rapidly rising star as one of the most sought-after consulting winemakers in Portugal. Mainly found in the Lima Valley in the heart of Vinho Verde, this grape has produced a fresh, crisp but balanced wine. The balance gives ripeness as well as intense acidity, with some density from the lees aging. The wine is ready to drink. -- Wine Enthusiast