Rating: 94
Reviewed by: Mark Squires
Issue Date: 31st Aug 2018
Source: 238, The Wine Advocate
The 2015 Vinhas Velhas de Santa Maria (Quinta de Foz de Arouce) was previously seen, but it was very young and not quite released. This is a Baga sourced from vines more than 100 years old. It was aged for 12 months in new French barriques and comes in at 14% alcohol. Impeccably balanced, this has a very refined feel—no rustic Baga here. Subtly concentrated, it also shows mid-palate finesse and a long, lingering finish. The velvety texture adds to the appeal. This has come around well since I last saw it. It looks like a winner, another sophisticated entrant in a long string of winners from this under-the-radar winery. Because of its impeccable balance, you could approach this now if you wish, but it would be nice to give it a few years to acquire more harmony and complexity. This should have no problem aging for 20 years. I think it will do even better given its acidity and structure. There were just 5,000 bottles produced.