2017 Batuta Tinto
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Tasting notes
Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Rufete, Malvasia Preta and others from Quinta do Carril, a north-facing vineyard more than 70 years old, near Quinta de Nápoles, and also from two other vineyards that are over 100 years old, planted at an elevation of 750 metres. Fermented in tank and aged 22 months in French oak. Deep purplish cherry red. Tangy, perfumed dark and red fruits with a dark rocky overlay to balance the fruit sweetness. Dry and chalky on the palate, the fruit all tongue-tied in the dry structure at the moment. Refined, chalky texture, elegance and freshness. Quite tense and sinewy at the moment and needs more time but already elegantly balanced and neat. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Mark Squires
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Batuta is a field blend from old vines aged for 20 months in 25% new French barriques. It comes in at just 13% alcohol. Not quite bottled when seen, this was the final blend and out of cask. Well. If I thought the Redoma was gloriously fresh, this one-ups it pretty easily. "Glorious" is the right word here, at least when coupled with "freshness." Silky, fruit forward and simple enlivening, this has a lingering finish filled with lifted fruit flavor. As always, there isn't a lot of depth, and it has an understated feel for its level. And, as tends to happen, I have a slight preference for the Redoma in the lineup. This 2017, however, is certainly a great example of a food wine that will drain fast at the table. Its freshness will preserve it as it ages, but it is surprisingly approachable right now.
About the producer
Product details
Touriga Franca/Touriga Francesa, Tinta Barroca, Tempranillo, Other
Red
Dry