As many of you know, I am on a press trip to Portugal this week, and although the trip is just getting started (I am here for another week), I thought I would post a few photos from the trip thus far.
I am in the Alentejo region of the country, centered in the town of Évora, just over 100 kilometers east of the capital, Lisbon. Thus far, the food, wine, architecture, and above all the people have been incredible.
The town of Évora, a UNESCO world heritage site, all seems to emanate from the lovely Praca do Giraldo in the center of town.
The town is an interesting clash of cultures, here with Roman ruins in front of a medieval Moorish structure.
The city is encircled by a largely intact fortress wall that was developed over many centuries and include several outposts.
I don’t think they realized they were in the picture.
On Sunday, there was a parade of sorts, which appeared to be simply an excuse for college students to drink heavily and douse one another with booze.
Interesting architecture can be found throughout the city.
The square at night.
Monday morning we were whisked off to the hilltop fortress of Monsaraz.
The former bullring now hosts concerts in the summer.
Next was the Herdade do Esporão, where we started with a lesson on olive oil production followed by a tasting.
Next, we had a winery tour, tasting, and lunch with Sandra Alves, the winemaker at Esporão.
After a short drive, we were at the largest producer of wines in amphorae in the world, José de Sousa.
The day ended with an incredible dinner in the barrel room at the Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas.
the drunken cyclist 
Enjoy! I attended a “master class” for Alentejo wine last month. Definitely feels like a region on the rise!
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We tasted some really fabulous wines!
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