1966 Verdelho
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Tasting notes
The 1966 Verdelho has a deep amber color as well as a light heather and toffee-scented bouquet with fine delineation. The palate is well-balanced with crisp acidity and vibrant, walnut-infused marmalade and honey notes. It is strict, linear and very focused with an impressive, precise finish that shimmers with tension. It was in 1850 that Joao Pereira d’Oliveira founded his company. He initially sold wines to other shippers, and it was not until the 1970s that they began to sell Madeira wines under their own label (though they continued to sell and buy lots, to and from other shippers.) It is a small company, but there are plentiful stocks of reserve wines. Their policy is to bottle on demand, which means their vintage wines can invariably benefit from extended cask aging. Let us begin with their reserve wines, which are mainly Tinta Negra Mole and are matured under estufugem. Importer: The Rare Wine Company, Sonoma, CA; Tel: (203) 457-1431; Fax: (203) 457- 4471
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 1966 D'Oliveiras Verdelho Reserva is drop-dead gorgeous. This is a remarkably poised, sublime wine made in an understated style that occupies a middle ground between the sweeter and drier styles of Madeira. The wine offers outstanding persistence on the palate and a finish that lasts forever. Nothing in particular stands out here, just the wine's phenomenal harmony. This is a contemplative, surreal Madeira that can easily be enjoyed on its own.