2007 Adega Ponte de Lima "Adamado" Vinho Verde, Portugal

One of Bon Appetit Magazine's Great Bargain Bottles! When the temperatures are high most people stray away from wine turning to beer, refreshing cocktails like mojitos or margaritas or, heaven forbid, water, to quench their sun-induced thirst. But most don't know about the low alcohol (this one clocking in at 10% ABV), thirst quenching number called Vinho Verde. These traditional wines from the north of Portugal have snappy, bright acidity and a touch of fizz to them that makes them even more appealing, at least in my humble opinion. The "Adamado" is from a co-op by the name of Ponte de Lima, a conglomeration of more than 2,000 growers that began in 1962. Made from a blend of traditional varietals (Loureiro, Trajadura and Pedernã) this wine is all about unabashed, tangy lime flesh. Add the slightest bit of effervescence and minerality and subtract the lack of cloying, sugary sweetness and this is one of the best wines from Vinho Verde on the market today. Our staff has taken to this wine like a fish to water, some of whom may have even been spotted drinking this straight from the bottle. (Bryan Brick, K&L)