2011 Casa Ferreirinha Barca-Velha - Douro DOC - 1 Bottle (0.75L)

Parker Scale Points: 97 / 100
Barca-Velha is the epitome, the first, an unquestionable symbol of the highest quality wines from the Douro. Classic, intense, complex, elegant and rich; adjectives are few to describe what has been, since its creation in 1952, the most celebrated Portuguese wine. Barca-Velha is the foundation on which the reputation of Casa Ferreirinha was built, the brand with the greatest tradition of quality in the Douro and one of the main global references.
NOTES:
Its color is deep ruby. Very complex aroma, with prominence for spices, such as pepper, balsamic notes, cedar and tobacco box, red fruits, like ripe plum, slate, and a high-quality wood, well integrated. On the palate it has vibrant, very lively acidity, very firm tannins, notes of spices, dark fruits and balsamic flavors. The finish is extremely long, of great elegance and complexity.
VINTAGE YEAR:
The winter was cold and very rainy, contributing to the replenishment of water reserves in the soil. Between the end of spring and the beginning of autumn, the climate was dry, with two notable exceptions, on August 21 and September 1, totaling between 35 and 40 mm across the region. The mild summer and the availability of water in the soil allowed a very balanced grape ripening.
MATURATION:
Maturation in French oak barrels, for a period of about 18 months. The final lot is produced based on a careful selection of the best wines resulting from the numerous tastings and analyses carried out on the different lots and barrels over this period. In this selection lies the “secret” of Barca-Velha. In order to preserve the highest quality, it is only filtered before bottling.
STORAGE:
Although ready to drink, it has long aging potential and evolves positively in the bottle, which should be kept lying down. The apogee may be 15-20 years after harvest, though it is expected to remain alive for a period up to an indeterminate today.
SHIPPING METHOD:
CTT, or another platform. Carrier. Hand delivery in some parts of Portugal.