TN: Casa Ferreirinha Douro Reserva Especial 1997

[Ronald Wortel]

This probably would have been even better if we had given it enough time in the decanter, but we didn't. Now it showed how incredibly young this still is at 14 years of age, and how much upswing potential it still has. Quite tight on the nose, but with very pure dark fruit. Elegant, but fierce palate, with blackcurrant, blackberry, a nice mix of spices and good minerality. The tannins are elegant, but tight. Very well composed, and full of promise for the future. This wine shows why Casa Ferreirinha is at the top of Douro winemaking. Bravo. 93 points now, but plenty of room for improvement.

Paired with slow cooked beef tenderloin and porcini risotto, which worked out extremely well.