Quinta do Ataide 2009
(Altano)
With a long history of shipping port dating back to the 19th century, the Symington family began investing in table wines in the Douro region in the 1980’s, growing the first single varietal vineyards in the area. In 2004, it acquired the Quinta do Ataíde and the Quinta do Canada, in the Vilariça Valley (Upper Douro), to consolidate the Altano Douro business. The vineyards of these two Quintas grow on schist soils, in a very distinctive terroir, with extreme temperatures and terraces at various different altitudes. The grapes are native Douro red varieties: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. The Altano Reserva is made from a blend of the first two.
Symington currently owns 22 quintas in the Douro and is the leader in premium quality ports, with a range of famous brands.
Appearance
Cherry red with very good intensity.
Nose
A wealth of fruit aromas with pronounced black fruit, such as blackberries and plums. Later we find notes of menthol, mixed with touches of spice from the barrel.
Palate
Ripe and fresh on entry, with perfectly integrated tannin throughout. On the finish, it shows loads of mountain herbs and a very pleasant menthol character.
Comment
From one of the most prestigious vineyards in the Douro, the Quinta do Ataíde in the Vilariça Valley (Upper Douro). The vineyard was planted in the late 70's and early 80's.
The wine is made from the local Touriga Nacional variety and is aged for 10 months in 400L American oak barrels. It is a good example of today's new style of still wines from the Douro, combining the typical power of the area, with remarkable maturity, nice oak, amiability and finesse. Delectable and very fresh on the palate, it is perfect for drinking now.
Recommended with a slow roasted suckling pig with herbs, apples and cocoa.
Glass by RIEDEL, VINUM collection, TEMPRANILLO model.