Quinta do Vesuvio Douro DOC 2014
The winter of 2013/2014 was wet but relatively mild, with an exceptionally warm February. A hot spring followed, and the beginning of the vegetative cycle was marked by the vines' rapid growth. Unstable weather conditions in June and July, months characterized by storms and large variations in temperature, saw the vines development somewhat delayed, however, a cool, dry August meant that the problems normally associated with the high temperatures of the Douro Valley, such as hydric stress, were avoided, and the grapes matured significantly in this period. The vintage began earlier than usual, and although some rain fell throughout September, the grapes were picked in an optimum state of maturity and brought into the winery in perfect condition, allowing the production of some excellent wines.
Reviews
...aged for 14 months in new French oak. Remarkably graceful. It adds impeccable balance, tension on the finish and plenty of mid-palate finesse to go with a feeling of fullness in the mouth. Restrained and a bit understated, but always vibrant, this is rather gorgeous.
CELLAR SELECTION - Concentrated and powerful, this wine comes from one of the grandest estates in the Douro, now owned by the Symington family. Full of rich fruit along with layers of firm tannins, it is solid, dark and will age well.
This full-bodied red is generous but focused, with blackberry, plum and dried strawberry fruit highlighted by anise, herb and cocoa accents. Well-integrated tannins frame the finish, which is filled with floral and mineral elements.
