2019 Pera Manca

Arinto, Antão Vaz, oldest mass-selection plots (c 40 years old) that were the result of research in the 70s and 80s. 75% fermented in French oak (one-third new), the rest (mainly Arinto) in tank. 12–14 months on lees, with stirring, then 6–12 months in bottle before release. Quite different in aroma compared with the 2020 – it has all that cedary citrus but also a slightly nutty/toasty character. Not hugely concentrated on the mid palate but it is starting to show real complexity of fruit and oak. Deliciously fresh and intense on the long finish. (JH)