Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca
The winter preceding the 2012 harvest was much colder and drier than usual, with only 183,6mm of rain falling at Pinhão between November and March. Bud burst occurred at the normal time towards the third week in March followed by good levels of rainfall in April and early May. At the end of May the vineyards showed low vigour, a result of the extremely dry winter and cooler than normal spring. Continued good weather during June and July led to the healthy evolution of the vines, although the smaller berries and bunches showed a low yield for the year. Vérasion occurred a little later than usual.
Deep ruby black center with narrow purple rim. Impressive depth and intensity of fruit on the nose. Very fine complex woodland berry aromas intertwined with discreet resiny, balsamic scents of garrigue, rock rose and wild herbs. On the palate the dark fruit flavors have a surprising freshness and a tight mesh of thick, grippy tannins provides both structure and volume. A wonderfully long finish leaving succulent flavors of raspberry and cassis. Very fine and beautifully balanced, the 2012 Guimaraens combines the depth and richness of Quinta do Panascal with the clearly delineated fruit and heady scented quality of the Pinhão Valley.
Blue cheese, aged cheeses, desserts made with dark chocolate or berries, nuts or dried fruits.
