This wine derives from a rigorous selection of grapes produced in the oldest vineyards of the Quinta, this results in a blend of varieties in which Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca usually represent 90% and are complemented by Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, and Tinto Cão.
Each grape variety is harvested and vinified separately. After being crushed and de-stemmed into granite ‘lagares’ they are trodden by foot. Later they are transferred to stainless steel tanks where fermentation takes place. After fermentation, one part of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barriques. The wine is then aged for 16 to 18 months in barriques which are 50% new and 50% used.
Very concentrated in colour. Deep and complex nose with lots of aromatic nuances, yet maintaining the balance between them. In the mouth it is vibrant, in a set of great elegance, showing an excellent integration of the wood, a surprisingly large variety of flavours, and a very long aftertaste.
Robert Parker – Wine Advocate
95-97 points
This is a wine of real finesse, and is well worth cellaring, although it is superb now. The aromas are very youthful, shy and undeveloped, with some peppermint notes. The palate is refined and delicate, racy and alive, with marvellous acidity. Its tremendous intensity is most impressive.
Food: Simply grilled snapper.