2019 Dow's Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira

The 2019 Quinta Senhora Ribeira Vintage Port contains a higher percentage of Tinta Franca (53%), a variety that enjoys the heat, which underpins its success. It has a tightly wound nose, tertiary at first with undergrowth scents permeating the black fruit, tobacco and humidor, later scents of dates, fennel and mint. The palate is medium-bodied with firm but ripe tannins, very well balanced with a liberal sprinkling of white pepper and clove. There is a subtle crescendo that peaks towards the finish with very fine, very chiseled tannins and impressive persistence. Perhaps this will fight with the Bomfim and Symington's pick of 2019? Just 985 cases, 20% of the total production of the quinta released.

The 2019 Quinta de Senhora da Ribeira Vintage Port, Dow's Douro Superior Quinta, is a 53/26 blend of Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional with 21% Sousão. Bottled in May 2021, it comes in with 100 grams per liter of residual sugar. Even more aromatic than its sibling, the Bomfim this issue, this is also more textured, more caressing on the palate. It is just as tight as the Bomfim, perhaps tighter, but it does seem to open faster. It also seems more precise and more seductive today. This is being released now, unlike the Bomfim, which will not be released for 10 years, part of the Symingtons' familiar late-release program. At the moment, I'd take this, which might today be my favorite of the 2019 Symington Ports this issue. There were 985 cases produced.

This is dark and rich with blackcurrants, blackberries, chocolate, cedar and tar on offer. Full-bodied with firm tannins and a velvety texture. A deep, succulent dark-fruit backbone with a medium-sweet, crunchy mid-palate. Lingering, chalky finish. Still tight. Try after 2026.