The small 2.9-hectare Stone Terrace vineyard at Quinta dos Malvedos produced an extraordinary wine in 2015. The grapes were picked by hand on the 12th and 13th of September, a couple of days before substantial rain fell across the Douro Valley, and were then fermented in lagares in the estate’s own winery. Yields were incredibly low at just 0.82 kg per vine but several hours of treading over the following days delivered a magnificent wine with sublime floral aromas of violets.
Reviews
A site-specific wine from three small plots of north-facing terraced vineyards on the Malvedos estate: wonderfully aromatic (high percentage of Touriga Nacional) with classic floral character, soft, rich and opulent with broad structured tannins building and leading to a ripe, complete finish. Tiny yields. 400 cases produced.
Surprisingly dense—it has fleshed out—this doesn't surprise in its pure power or aromatics. As it sat in the bottle, it became more about muscle and density. It is a long way from ready, but it is round enough to be somewhat approachable. I'd really recommend that you hold this at least another decade, however, even if it will theoretically be approachable younger.
Flattering, with a gorgeous and seductive, showy display of warm plum sauce, blueberry reduction and chocolate-covered acaí berry flavors rushing forth. Light milk chocolate and black licorice notes check in through the finish, which is juicy and open in feel.
This second release of Stone Terraces combines the energy of its powerful tannins with the voluptuous richness Malvedos can give in the best years. It has the green esteva note of great young Porto—a scent close to Thai basil—and has a purity to the structure that makes it feel grand.
CELLAR SELECTION - An elegant wine with beautifully integrated tannins, this is concentrated as well as fruity. Its structure and blackberry fruits are sweet and ripe. The perfumes of this wine leave a stylish, fragrant aftertaste.
This is a single vineyard port from the farm of Quinta do Malvedos. Smells like ink with a dark and earth aroma. Spicy. Dried flowers. Full and rich with a slightly drier edge to this. Nice finish with dusty tannins. A beauty already. 400 cases made. This really grows on you. Long finish. Drink in 2023.