1989 Ferreirinha Douro Reserve

[Roy Hersh]

I brought this down with me to Florida for an exceptional weekend of wine. This is a Douro red Reserve produced by Ferreira's parent company. It has always been considered "baby Barca Velha" and usually has exceeded expectations.

This particular bottling was in perfect condition and there was no gap between the wine visible and the bottom of the capsule. I like when that happens. This showed medium ruby notes with a slight orange bricking to the rim. It offered plum, spice, tar and a touch of cedar on the nose. Once in the mouth this showed beautifully with fully resolved tannins and a smooth plush texture with generous viscousness. I loved the prune and smoky plum flavors that were dancing and only got better as this sat in glass. The finish was only mid-length and was the only component that was not remarkable. This will drink well through the balance of this decade. 92 pts.