As a child growing up in Monção, Portugal, Anselmo Mendes familiarized himself with the culture of the vine and wine production, focusing on the local Alvarinho variety. In 1998 he started producing wine with Alvarinho grapes in the Minho Valley, and since then Anselmo Mendes and Alvarinho have become synonomous. He has been lauded by critics from across the wine world as one of the greatest winemakers of in Portugal and the most innovative producer of Vinho Verde. He makes Vinho Verde wines from Alvarinho in the Minho Valley, Loureiro in the Lima Valley and Avesso in the Douro Valley.

Anselmo Mendes' Passaros Loureiro is made from 100% Loureiro. All grapes are hand-harvested and are fermented at a low temperature for an extended period of time. The wine is aged for 4 months on the fine lees with regular stirring before bottling. The Passaros pours a lemon-green color, exhibiting aromas of citrus and tropical fruits. On the palate, the wine is light and crisp with a sharp, refreshing acidity. The finish is long with lovely fruit and herbaceous flavors. Enjoy this wine as a cold drink on a hot day, an aperitif, or serve it with a light seafood salad.