The 20-hectare Afros winery is situated in the Vinho Verde region of Portugal and is the brainchild of architect and Steiner teacher Vasco Croft, who moved from Lisbon in 2003 to take over his family's 17^th century farm, thereby establishing Portugal's first (and so far, only) biodynamic quinta. The farm has been in the family for over 100 years but Vasco embarked upon an ambitious replanting and retraining programme and recruited winemaker Rui Cunha to oversee operations. A new cellar is planned but at present the wines are made in granite lagares (open stone tanks) situated in a small cellar underneath the main house. This biodynamic sparkling red is made in the traditional method from 100% Vinhao grapes from a single 2 hectare vineyard. Like champagne, the secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle resulting in a complex, floral, sparkling red with great depth.

A deep purple-red in colour with an excellent mousse. On the nose, aromas of red cherry and chocolate. The palate is rich and complex with savoury notes and pronounced tannins. Bags of dried fruit flavours. The acidity is balanced and the finish substantial and lingering. Superb! Great as a summer aperitif. Otherwise try with pan-fired halloumi with roasted beetroot or roast Cornish sardines with vine tomatoes, lime, coriander and red onion salsa.