Aromas of toasty oak and vanilla with citrus hints before a mouth-filling palate of orchard and stone fruits, with some creamy notes before a juicy, lingering finish.
Almonds, kernel, nut oil, orange oil, tangerine skin and heady lanolin-lined lees in this Orvieto Classico from Umbria. Density without heft, this lingers with stones and wild herbs. Lovely intensity in a slimmer frame and would make for an ideal partner to grilled halibut or sesame scallops. Great value.
Pale golden colour. White and yellow tropical fruits with a fair amount of oak. The fine acidity is contrasted by the fatty texture in the rich mid-palate. There is a slightly vegetal note for extra freshness. It is rare to find such generosity and aging potential (4 to 5) years) at this price level.
Dark ruby. Perfumed nose on notes of ripe red berries. Fresh fruity taste, balanced acidity in a medium- to full-bodied mid-palate. Definitely well made but without individuality or expression of a particular terroir.
Dark ruby. Black fruits dominate its nose, followed by oaked vanilla and a light red flower touch. Full-bodied and tight on the palate with great fruity extract. The long finish has a slight bitter edge. Better wait 2-3 years before trying it again.
Quinta Do Encontro has bended the indigenous variety Baga grape with Merlot here. You get a sturdy wine that’s dense purple in colour with a toasty, spicy nose of blackberries and a floral grace note. Those flavours are replicated satisfyingly on the palate. Serve it with hearty winter casseroles.
Clear medium-gold. Average intensity nose of candy apple, apricot and roasted peach. Full-bodied and rich but with a nice touch of Italy in the tartness and slight minerality. Drink to 2019.