2001 Quinta do Vale Dona Maria Vintage Port

[David Spriggs]

Medium ruby color. No lightening on the edge, so still seems young. This was not a "declared" year, but was an outstanding Douro wine year, so I do have some good expectations for this Port. Beautiful floral nose of roses, cardamon, plum, subtle earth, and mandarin orange. The entry is incredibly smooth. It caresses the mouth and then fades (unfortunately) to short finish where the very fine tannins take over. Some lime acidity echos in the finish. Clean and very well made. The clipped finish is unfortunate. Everything is right up front with this Port. Maybe it will fill out a bit tomorrow. This is certainly stronger than an LB V, but not of the same level as a declared year Vintage Port. Delicious! Right now I give it 89 points.