Maria Papoila Loureiro/Alvarinho 2022

The 2022 Maria Papoila Loureiro & Alvarinho is a 70/30 blend of Loureiro and Alvarinho, with 6.7 grams per liter of residual sugar, 7.4 of total acidity and 11.1% alcohol. As with the Maria Bonita Loureiro, there is good balancing acidity for the slightly elevated sugar level. This is not bone dry, but it doesn't show sweet at all and it maintains some crispness. Then, the Alvarinho component also makes this more substantial. It actually shows surprising depth in terms of mouthfeel. There's a lingering finish, tasty fruit and a bit of power. This is a little more interesting than the Loureiro, as well as more substantial, but it doesn't quite have the aromatics that the monovarietal Loureiro has. Reasonable minds might make different choices, especially when the Loureiro is less expensive, but they are both nicely done at reasonable price points. I'd pick this, and it should also age a bit better. Most won't care, though, about aging. Today, the decision is closer than it will be in a year or two. Drink date: 2023-2027. Score - 89. (Mark Squires, robertparker.com, May 31, 2023)