Barca Velha 2011 – Casa Ferreirinha – Douro DOC – 97 Parker / 99 Suckling

One of the most prestigious and collectible wines ever produced in Portugal, Barca Velha 2011 represents the flagship expression of Casa Ferreirinha and one of the great modern vintages of the Douro. Barca Velha has been produced only in selected exceptional years since its creation in 1952. The 2011 vintage was made from 45% Touriga Franca, 35% Touriga Nacional, 10% Tinta Roriz and 10% Tinto Cão, with only 30,396 bottles of 75cl produced. The 2011 has received extraordinary international critical recognition, including 97/100 from Robert Parker and 99/100 from James Suckling. Deep and concentrated in colour, the wine reveals an exceptionally complex aromatic profile of blackberry and dark fruit alongside spice, cedar, tobacco, floral and balsamic notes. On the palate it combines remarkable concentration with vibrant acidity, powerful yet polished tannins and beautifully integrated oak. The finish is exceptionally long, elegant and complex, demonstrating the structure and balance that have made Barca Velha one of Portugal’s most celebrated long-lived wines. The 2011 vintage also has an unusual chapter in Barca Velha history: Casa Ferreirinha carried out a complete re-corking operation on the production of 75cl bottles before commercial release, specifically to protect the wine’s longevity and quality.