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The morning started off here with a tasting of about 40 Vinho Verde wines from around the region to give us an overview.
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And we're off!
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We passed by some of the verdant scenery...
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Our sweet mountain bikes got ridden hard.
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We cross the Lima...
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A view of the river.
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Jill Zimorsky & I stop for a breather.
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We stop in the woods for lunch and... for the brave few, a swim across the river!
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Along the ride we saw several different vine training systems.
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Some vines were hung pergola-style across the path.
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Here are some more high-trained vines.
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A few vineyards had switched to VSP in the last few years.
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These aromatic laureiro grapes make big bunches and hang heavy.
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Most people also plant corn near the vines. It's common to see a square field of corn surrounded by high-trained vine systems, called "ramada."
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All was going smoothly until... Jesse Rodriguez's chain broke! We all decided to stop for a rest ("No Somm Left Behind!") while we waited for the replacement chain to arrive. We explored the vineyard, ate some grapes, played someone's playlist, and hydrated.
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Meanwhile, Pascaline & Jesse Becker found 4 cases of wine discarded by the side of the road. We took a bottle and passed it around as a refreshing treat while we waited for the bike mechanic.
Hey, Brad Royale has just taken a deep swig of the nectar, and the look on his face really sums up the flavor.
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Finally we are back on our way. We pass by a series of fountains,
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.....we even saw a waterfall!
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And at the end of the road, we saw some guys playing soccer and we invaded the field for a full-on game.
By the end, we were thirsty for more wine...