97pts Wine Spectator

A suave, sophisticated red, offering complexity and length in a finely-meshed frame. A core of ripe black plum and mulberry fruit flavor is integrated with refined tannins and appealing accents of violet, thyme, mocha, mineral and star anise that linger on the well-tailored finish. Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca. Drink now through 2041. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. From Portugal.

One of the marquee wines of the Douro Valley, this is made in microscopic quantities and not in every vintage. One of my favorite Quinta (property/chateau/brand), the Vesuvio Tinto is as beautiful in the glass as it is when you see the vineyards and site nestled along the Douro River in the Douro Superior. The property is huge, stretching from riverfront to mountain top as it stretches back away from the river up to the mountain tops that tower over the Douro River.

Grape Varieties: 70% Touriga Nacional | 30% Touriga Franca

Aging: 15 months in new 400 litre french oak barrels