Very lively, with pineapple and peach flavors that are fresh, clean and snappy. Features mineral and cream on the finish. Drink now. 2,500 cases made.

The NV "CICONIA" Vinho Verde is the 3rd vintage of this wine from Relvas (best known in the South), although the first I've seen here. It is a blend of Avesso, Azal and Loureiro. A bit fizzy, fruity but crisp, not particularly sweet and coming in at 10.5% alcohol, this is a friendly and well priced Vinho Verde. It has a traditional feel, but exceeds expectations by demonstrating a fair bit of solidity in the mid-palate, relative to the type. I rather liked this effort and it should be available dirt cheap. Although it is a non-vintage wine, it is all from the 2011 vintage. A small date stamp on the capsule of L311044RV identifies the production reviewed (the '11 indicates 2011). Drink now.