Fruit from Quinta da Rôeda, whole bunches, varieties co-fermented in granite lagares. Typically foot-trodden to start before the mechanical pistons take over. The spirit for fortification is made from their own grapes. 7–8 months in small seasoned oak vats in the Douro and then 10 months in the same vats in Vila Nova de Gaia. TA 4.7 g/l, pH 3.68, RS 96 g/l. Total production 1,600 cases.
Darkest crimson with soft purplish rim. Much more lifted and red-fruited than the Sentinels. More rock rose, more openly aromatic and with blueberry sweetness. Juicy and firm at the same time, extremely fresh, smooth and vibrant. The tannins are silky! Seems almost light for a port but I think that’s misleading, as the brightness and sweetness mask the structure. Drink 2030-2060.
Based on Quinta da Roêda just upstream from Pinhão, just 1,600 cases declared in total. Deep youthful crimson and rather more demure on the nose (compared with the two Taylor wines above) with soft, seductive plummy fruit underlying as well as something slightly exotic; plump and opulent initially on the palate, verging on luscious with lovely plum, and damson fruit backed by soft, supple, ripe tannins leading to a long, firm linear finish, with a juicy jelly bean quality. Exuberant yet precise in style in common with most wines from 2024. Drink over the medium term.
