2017 QUINTA DO VALLADO DOURO RESERVA “... a field blend (some 32 grapes from centenarian vines), principally Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca and Tinta Barroca, all aged for 16 months in 20% new French barriques. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. Of all of Vallado's fine reds this issue, this might be the most refined. Sensually textured, it has plenty of power on the finish to go with its beautiful mid-palate finesse. It seems very sophisticated. Focused and precise, this looks like a great Reserva from Vallado. Plus, considering the wave of pricey upper-level wines lately, it's also a relative value point in the lineup. How well will it age? Let's start here—but be prepared to cellar it for a few years, at the least, to allow it to become more expressive…” 95 Points “Very concentrated, with balsamic oak notes, fig and black plum aromas, tobacco. Full bodied, firm, mature and silky tannins. Mineral notes and a very elegant, persistent and complex finish.”