2019 Cedro do Noval

The 2019 Cedro do Noval is a blend of 45% Touriga Nacional, 20% Syrah, 30% Touriga Franca and the rest Tinto Cão, all aged for 11 months in 85% used French oak. It comes in at 14.4% alcohol. A lovely Cedro, this is well balanced, fresh and delicious, the fruit showing off controlled Syrah nuances (this is never gamey) supported by ripe tannins. This is never the most profound wine in the portfolio, but it's easy-drinking fun at a good price. You can start now, but it may last the decade.

65% Viosinho, 35% Gouveio grown on the highest vineyards of this famous port quinta. All the fruit was fermented (for 23 days) and aged (for six months) in French oak barrels, 20% new. Malo suppressed. Lees stirring once a week for three months. Very youthful but rather rich nose. Good acidity on the palate and some evidence of oak ageing. Not quite ready but it should age very nicely. The French oak treatment gives a hint of Bordeaux to this wine. (JR)