Quinta de Santa Eufémia White 20 years 1991

16.5 / 20

Producer: Quinta de Santa Eufémia

Region: Porto

Country: Portugal

Ambar colored, almost orange in the glass, the nose is very balanced and elegant, showing notes of exotic woods, orange peel, a definite smoky feel which usually pops up in older white ports and some crystalized fruits in the background.

To the taste, this is a rounded, full-bodied wine. The honeyed sweeter notes are perfectly balanced by a nice acidity forming a very poised and elegant body. Finishes long and strong, leaving honey and figs impressions in the palate.

Although not as impressive as the 30 years old from the same producer - which I urge you to taste - this is a very good old white which deserves some attention.

Definitely for dessert. Or by itself after meals.

Tasted on 2011-05-04

Quinta dos Roques 1991

16.5 / 20

Producer: Quinta dos Roques

Region: Dão

Country: Portugal

I've always been told and read that the Dão wines from Portugal tend to age well. Judging by this 19-year old wine, they certainly do! Deep red with a brownish tinge, it still shows a lot of red fruit in the nose, along with the more expected wood and leathery notes. In the mouth it is a very delicate, elegant wine still showing some fruit and with a medium finish. Everything still together and in great shape, probably will still hold for some years. This being the brand's second wine, I would certainly like to taste the Reserva.

This wine as paired with a lightly seasoned rare steak. It stood up well, but would probably shine even more with a more delicate flavor dish.

Tasted on 2010-05-14