1996 Warre's Quinta da Cavadinha

The 1996 has a very mellow, refined bouquet with good delineation although it does not come out and grab you. Notes of macerated black cherries, a touch of honey, bay leaf and a touch of sage all vie for attention...but you have to eke out the aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with raisin and fig on the entry, the finish fine and precise, its freshness undiminished by bottle age. Drink now-2025. Tasted October 2011. Importer: Vineyard Brands Inc, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

A blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Roriz and Barroca. After one of the wettest winters on record in the Douro, favourable conditions throughout the rest of the season set the scene for one of the largest vintages in living memory. Fermentation took place with natural yeasts at between 24-29ºC. Once the must had fermented to the desired degree of sweetness (usually within 48 hours), fortification took place with grape brandy at 77%. Winemaker Charles Symington. TA 4.88g/l, pH 3.8. Spiced, alcohol infused dried fruit and citrus peel. Then a savoury counterpoint of wood-baked potato skins.  Great power but with finesse starting to appear. Needs more time but the balance should be great once the fire has subsided. (JH)