Casa Ferreirinha Reserva Especial 1986 – Historic Douro Red – 75cl

A rare mature bottle of Casa Ferreirinha Reserva Especial 1986, one of the historic great reds of the Douro and a wine intrinsically connected with the legendary Barca Velha tradition. Carefully vinified at Quinta do Vale do Meão from a rigorous selection of grapes from the estate and higher-altitude vineyards of the Douro, the wine was matured for 12 to 18 months in 270-litre oak casks. The original back label provides a fascinating insight into Casa Ferreirinha’s selection process, explaining that the Reserva Especial designation was chosen when the wine’s anticipated longevity was considered lower than that required for Barca Velha, allowing it to be released earlier. The producer describes the 1986 as intensely coloured and full-bodied, with mature fruit, violet-like floral aromas and spices, balanced structure and a persistent, fine and delicate finish. Now approximately 40 years from harvest, this bottle retains its original front and back labels, Ferreirinha capsule and guarantee strip. The capsule appears intact, while the labels show attractive natural cellar ageing consistent with the bottle’s age. A compelling piece of Portuguese wine history and an increasingly scarce mature example from one of the Douro’s most important producers.