Quinta do Vale Meão 2011 – 97 Points – Exceptional Douro Vintage – 75cl

Quinta do Vale Meão 2011 is an outstanding mature vintage of one of Portugal’s most prestigious Douro reds, produced at the historic Quinta do Vale Meão estate in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. The estate has its origins in the great legacy of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira — “Ferreirinha” and today remains under the stewardship of her descendants, the Olazabal family. The exceptional 2011 vintage was produced from 55% Touriga Nacional, 34% Touriga Franca, 6% Tinta Barroca and 5% Tinta Roriz, vinified separately before the final blend. The wine was matured in French oak barriques, with Wine Advocate reporting approximately 80% new oak and 20% second-use barrels. The result is a powerful yet sophisticated Douro red, combining concentrated dark fruit and kirsch with spice, mineral character, white pepper and beautifully integrated oak. Wine Spectator praised its richness, silky tannins and long mineral finish. The quality of the vintage is reflected in its major international ratings: 97/100 Wine Spectator, 97/100 James Suckling, 96/100 Wine Advocate and 96/100 Wine Enthusiast.