TN: 2002 Quinta Vale D. Maria Douro.

Cellared 7 yrs, bottle autographed by winemaker. 13.% alc, Lot 4177, v good natural cork, Jose Maria de Fonseca and van Zeller. Decanted one hour, sediment noted.

Some very slight bricking on the rim. Medium plus intensity in the centre.
Savoury spice nose. Still has a hint of oak, some cherry and red berries. Complex for sure.
Initial entry thought is dry, some tannins, very good acidity, earthy. "Some tar here" from across the table. Full-bodied, still has time I think. Excellent structure, has cellared nicely, some undergrowth tones here too, especially on day 2. Plum, blueberry but not that ripe.
I have a nice Portugal selection in my cellar but not that many will reach the heights of this one!
Food was stuffed chicken breast with a mushroom duxelle.

Glad you enjoyed this and that it is still drinking well - 2002 was a weak vintage in the Douro. I hear the 2011 is an excellent wine, but the price has shot up into the $50+ range, if you can find it.

Thanks Joe, for a week vintage this is not a bad effort.