Tasting Notes – Wines for Halloween – 10.29.2025

presented by Brad Werner of Ocean South Imports

MEDUSA

Mythology tells us that Medusa was an irresistible being, carrying within herself the curse of turning anyone to stone who stared at her. The curse only ceased when a fisherman used a mirror that reflected her own image and turned her into stone, allowing her destruction. The legend says that from one of her veins sprang the elixir of eternal life. Mythology is a recreation of life, and for that reason, Cave Central da Bairrada created the Medusa Bairrada DOC wine brand. This brand was born to create mythological wines from the Bairrada region, which will prevail in time and memories. These wines are produced in the heart of Bairrada, Portugal, and have been on the market since 2019.

Medusa Espumante Branco Bruto

Medusa Espumante Branco Bruto is a vibrant sparkling wine from Portugal’s Bairrada region.
Appellation: Bairrada, Portugal
Grapes: Maria Gomes, Bical
Tasting notes: It opens with exuberant floral aromas and notes of white-fleshed fruits, offering a fresh and elegant bouquet. On the palate, it is fruity and harmonious, with a crisp acidity that enhances its lively character.
Pairings: The wine’s fine bubbles and balanced structure make it an ideal companion for light appetizers, seafood, or simply as a refreshing aperitif.
Producer: Cave Central da Bairrada

Bairrada Branco. Medusa Vinhos ~ 2023

Appellation: Bairrada, Portugal
Grapes: Maria Gomes, Bical – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: Exuberant floral aromas and white pulp fruits notes. Fruity, fresh, elegant and harmonious.
Pairings: Pair with Seafood, Salads, Fish.
Producer: Cave Central da Bairrada

Bairrada Tinto, Medusa Vinhos ~ 2020

Appellation: Bairrada, Portugal
Grapes: Baga, Touriga Nacional – ABV 13%
Tasting notes: It presents a limpid garnet color and opens with intense aromas of ripe red fruits, complemented by subtle toasted notes that add depth and warmth. On the palate, it offers a pleasant volume and harmonious texture, with balanced acidity and a persistent finish that lingers gracefully.
Pairing: Perfect with Pork, Lamb, Beef.

Producer: Cave Central da Bairrada

Bairrada Reserva Tinto, Medusa Vinhos ~ 2017

Appellation: Bairrada, Portugal
Grapes:  Baga, Touriga Nacional – ABV 13.5%
Tasting notes: Red fruit jam with floral notes. Taste: Structured, complex with persistent tannins wich denote firmness and elegance. Extended mouth finish.
Pairings: Pair with Venison, Partridge, Mushrooms, Duck.
Producer: Cave Central da Bairrada