Prats & Symington Prazo de Roriz 2019
A very dry and mild winter and spring, and by late summer the vines were in need of water to keep maturations on track. Fortunately, the virtual absence of rain from May to late August was counterbalanced by cooler summer conditions, which attenuated the lack of water. Fortunately, the virtual absence of rain from May to late August was counterbalanced by cooler summer conditions, which attenuated the lack of water. Before the vintage, we experienced fine conditions including some useful rain in late August, which rehydrated the vines. Blessed with ideal harvest conditions throughout September with clear sunny days bringing moderate temperatures that contributed to balanced ripening — evident in the excellent balance between the levels of acidity and sugar. Yields were closer to average following the exceptionally small years of 2017 and 2018.
The Prazo de Roriz is characterized particularly by red fruit flavors - raspberries and cherries and the Quinta de Roriz terroir provides a distinctive minerality and appealing peppery spice. Expressive aromas, freshness and liveliness are the hallmarks of the 2019 wines.
Reviews
A juicy, fresh delivery full of red and blue berries, together with wild herbs, stems, hibiscus, white pepper and cocoa powder, extending to the juicy, fluid and linear palate that’s full of energy. Not huge depth here, but it’s mealy and drinkable with a medium-bodied palate, underscored by fruit vibrancy. Delicious now, why hold?
Produced with grapes from Quinta de Roriz, the wine is soft and fruity, with light tannins and plenty of blackberry fruits. The texture and light tannins will allow the wine to age, so drink from 2023.
The 2019 Prazo de Roriz is a blend of 20% Touriga Franca and 35% Touriga Nacional with Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca and others, often in a field blend, all aged for six months in used French oak. It comes in at 13.6% alcohol. This is a point in the Symington and Prats & Symington lineups where the wines start to get a bit more serious. This projects reasonable depth, wonderful freshness and a nice finish with understated flavors. This elegant wine is a perfect food wine, tasty, structured and refined.
This bright and brambly red offers a lively range of black raspberry coulis, violet, forest floor and spice, with light, taut tannins. Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca.