Xisto, Roquette e Cazes 2011

The 2011 Xisto was probably the biggest star of the winery's retrospective this issue. Coming in at 15% alcohol, it holds everything together well. Simply gorgeous, it is ripe, but tightly wound and beautifully balanced. Complexity will come in time, but this also shows intensity on the finish and it very much needs some more time in the cellar. It should come together well. Mostly about its potential just now, it will be interesting to see how this evolves with time. Drink: 2017 - 2036.

Very deep ruby in the glass. An expressive, rich, and aromatic nose packed with liquorice, blackberry, blackcurrent and fig. The palate is ripe and full bodied with a dense core of black fruit that follows from the nose. This wine is ripe but balanced by acidity and given structure by the currently firm tannins. Pure blackberry and blackcurrent are layered together with anise, wood smoke, and nutmeg on a very long and spicy finish. Douro typicity with excellent structure for ageing, a serious wine. Impressive.