Quinta dos Carvalhais Reserva Tinto

Vinification:
The varieties were vinified separately. The grapes, under excellent conditions, were smoothly crushed and traditionally vinified, for about 8 days, in stainless steel vats, at controlled temperatures of 28ºC. Depending on the caste, it was pre-and/or post 4. After alcoholic fermentation the wine was referred to stainless steel vats, where the malo -fermentation was due. Subsequently, it was matured in oak barrels new (45%) and used (55%) for a period of 12 months. Only French grain oak was used from French tankers. During maturation several evidence was taken to follow the evolution of different wines. Then the lot was prepared, and the wine was glued, filtered and bottled.

TEST NOTES:
Very dense red, it features a bouquet that resembles floral (violet) aromas and black fruits (plum and cherry), well integrated with notes from the oak stage. In the mouth it has a well -balanced acidity and a living attack, with aromas of violet, cedar and minerals that extend in a very persistent end.

Storage advice and serve:
As with all Dão reds, this wine has a very long shelf life, being in great consumption conditions up to 10-15 years. The bottle should be kept horizontal, in a cool, dry place. With prolonged bottle aging (4/5 years), it is natural to develop a warehouse, so wine needs to be declined to better be appreciated. Once opened, it should be served on the day, even if it remains in good condition for a while, as long as it is tightly closed, preferably vacuum. A large glass should be used so that the wine breathes and open itself.

Criticism and awards:
. 92 points wines magazine;
. 90 points Robert Parker;
. 88 points Wine Spectator Magazine;
. 17 Large Wine Points Choices;
. Bronze Medal Decanter World Wine Awards 2015 (other harvests);
. Bronze International Wine & Spirit Competition 2015 (other harvests);
. Challenge International du Vin 2011 Silver Medal (other harvests);
. Silver Medal Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2011 (other harvests);
. Bronze International Wine Challenge 2011 (other harvests).