2016 Redoma Tinto

The 2016 Redoma is a field blend aged for 20 months in large and old wooden vats. It comes in at 13% alcohol. This was the final blend and out of cask, but it was a couple of weeks from bottling when seen. This adds intensity to the Vertente this issue but has some of the same characteristics, including glorious freshness and vivid fruit flavor. This is a terrific Redoma, tight, crisp, tense, focused and lingering, plus pretty delicious. It looks like a fine competitor to the 2015. Niepoort said he liked the balance on the 2015 somewhat better, and this had somewhat harder edges, at least now. He said the 2016 might age better, though. Then, after thinking about it, he said he preferred the 2016. He seemed a little conflicted—me too. It is hard choosing between your children. I liked the structure and intensity here a little more, while the 2015 has more finesse. In the long run, I suspect that they will be pretty close, both big winners. It is certainly true, though, that this 2016 is a bit more closed at the same point in its life. They are both going to age well too, probably better than anticipated.

Pretty density, yet remains linear and dusty in texture with plenty of blue-fruit, shale and spice character. Medium to full body, tangy acidity and a mineral aftertaste. Drink in 2020, when it will have softened.

Lovely pineapple fruit on the nose with a creamy dairy character on the finish and loads of flesh on the mid-palate. Has all the power of the Douro, with a nicely chewy texture on the length. (RH)