First vintage of this new Douro red from Cristiano van Zeller / D. Maria, apparently named after his daughter. Abt. 5700 bottles.
Vines only 7 years old in 2011. Foot trodden in lagares. Grapes mainly Tinta Francisca, Sousao and some Rufete.
Decanted 1.5 hrs. Dark purple red. Deep Douro-fruity, blackcurrant, cardamom, honey, some tobacco. Medium body. Quite cool and elegant, fruit is holding on all the way, minerals (lime), Plenty tannins towards the end. Well balanced. Some call it a bit "feminin". Will probably age well. 90 pts.
2011 Quinta Vale D. Maria Vinha da Francisca Douro red
Moderators: Glenn E., Roy Hersh, Andy Velebil