TN: 2003 Quinta do Vale Dona Maria

Frederick Blais · Post by **Frederick Blais** » Mon Apr 17, 2006 5:45 pm

Another great effort released by the Van Zeller and Jose Maria Fonseca venture. Christiano Van Zeller and Domingo Soares Franco are the guys behind this one.

This 2003 has a deep black/ruby color with purple rim. The nose burst with aroma of crushed cassis, raw cacao, the usual douro floral touch and a hint of resin. The mouth entry is fresh and smooth, the acidity is showing early, followed by the nice palate of black fruits and resin. Nice finish with tar, licorice and dark chocolate flavors, dry tannins are showing nice grain there. 16.5/20

Alcool was present both on the nose and mouth in the first 30 minutes after opening, but it blew away with time. The wine is showing 15% and an almost perfect ballance.

Post by **Roy Hersh** » Thu May 11, 2006 9:21 pm

2003 Quinta do Vale Dona Maria Douro Red – Vibrant dark ruby color. Ripe black cherry and vanilla scents are heady. Rich dark plum and chocolate on the palate with massive tannins and fine length offer great promise in a few years when this is ready to drink. Very enjoyable now, but those tannins pack a wallop. 91 points (10/28/05)

I can't wait to see this five years down the road. 8)

Steven Kooij · Post by **Steven Kooij** » Fri May 12, 2006 1:26 am

I agree - a great wine! However, I don't think J.M. de Fonseca is involved with this quinta.