2001 Quinta do Moinho

The 2001 Tinto "Quinta Do Moinho" is a Baga aged for 12 months in used French oak. It comes in at just 13.2% alcohol. Quite a contrast to the 2001 Barrio also reviewed, this is even silkier, tighter and more youthful in terms of fruit development. Not as concentrated as the Barrio but far more elegant, its fresher demeanor nonetheless makes it very lively and vibrant. It is also even more powerful on the finish, still a bit astringent, with very fine supporting acidity. Although the Barrio seems to be a bit more concentrated, this is no slouch. It has finesse and elegance in mid-palate construction, but it is never what one might call thin. With some air, it simply fills the mouth and engages every taste bud. It's a wonderful Baga, a different style than the Barrio, but equally fine. If you were looking at the review for the 2011 Ribeirinho in January 2015, and wondering how a wine that powerful and acidic could work, here's your answer. In what Pato describes as a very similar vintage, it simply needs time to gather itself. Expect the Ribeirinho 2011 to be even better in ten years, but drink this in the meanwhile. Note: Like the Barrio 2001, this might actually be available. This Moinho is being re-released in small quantities in some markets. Inquire with the importer or the winery if interested.

Chalky-clay soils. 7 ha. Unfiltered. Much denser colour than the 2000 but the same hue, perhaps with a little more red. Smells more than a year younger too. The spicy dark-red fruit is still to the fore, with some wild, sweet hedgerow and a gentle floral note. On the palate it’s deep and smooth with just a slight feeling of the grain. Everything seems more intense and richer than the 2000. The one similarity is that bloody note as the wine opens up and a touch of leather in the flavour and texture. Terrific freshness and persistence. Amazingly youthful. (JH)

Much darker than the Barrosa 2001. Spicy black fruit. Leather and undergrowth, and again the herbal edge. Darker fruit, taut and more austere though tannins are very fine. Freshness less evident. Closed up and a little reduced. Not filtered. Doesn't have Baga's red fruit but it has all the structure. (JH)