2009 Quinta do Mouro Tinto Gold Label

The 2009 Tinto Gold Label was previously only seen as a pre-release in Alentejo. Re-tasted again in Alentejo with some bottle age, this shows some of the roasted fruit nuance of the regular estate Tinto this issue, but only a hint. This has far more finesse and far better balance than the regular Tinto. It manages the warmth of the year much better, with a fresher style and brighter flavors. The structure is still in charge, the tannins and power on the finish seeming quite serious, but this is at a point where it can be approached now, even if it is not fully ready. This still looks like a fine Gold Label, although it will be a bit more divisive than normal due to its relatively riper demeanor. If you lean more to the blockbuster style, this is for you. It may yet improve with some more years in the cellar.