A Gracious Welcome

As we made our way on the switchbacks down into the valley, our van passed the Quinta San Antonio Britiande . The owner literally welcomed us with open arms as she showed us the cisterns that collect rainwater which gravity takes to the vineyards below. She is the fifth generation of her family on this farm, and she has turned it into a beautiful showplace. She ushered us into a spacious stone walled room with beautiful chestnut trusses supporting the roof. The house was simultaneously elegant and rustic. She shared with us a white wine her vineyards produce, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and a local white grape. It was paired perfectly with the puff pastry holding a thin sliver of Portuguese ham and bacon. Next she poured for each of us a glass of their Spumante, essentially Portuguese champagne, served with a mouth-watering cheese. After half an hour we rose to go, enriched not only by the refreshment she offered, but also by her gracious civility.Read more