<br />MILLESIME Although 2018 started out very dry, with soils parched from the previous year's rainfall deficit, the spring heralded abundant rainfall, and the months between<br />March and June recorded above-average rainfall. Soil water reserves were amply replenished, a good position to support the growth and ripening cycles of the vines. The wet<br />and cool spring and generally unstable weather conditions continued through the summer, leading to a decrease in crop size. Inevitably, the vine's growth cycle was delayed<br />by a few weeks, but a warm and dry August put ripening back on track. The climatic conditions at the beginning of September favoured uniform and complete ripening of the<br />berries with good levels of acidity reflected in the balance of the wines. The yields were very low, but this favoured the high quality that the 2018 wines reveal. THE WINE<br />Produced from grapes from four different vineyards located in the Douro Valley. Abundant spring rains restored soil water levels and ended one of the longest drought periods<br />recorded in the Douro.<br />August and September were very hot and dry, and while this reduced the size of the harvest, it also favoured very good ripening conditions, particularly beneficial for Touriga<br />Franca, a late variety that provided excellent quality and contributed significantly to this LBV. TERROIR Mainly from Quinta dos Malvedos and Quinta do Tua vineyards, with<br />contributions from Vila Velha and Vale de Malhadas, two additional properties that regularly contribute to Graham's Late Bottled Vintage blend. UVE Touriga Nacional and<br />Touriga Franca with a small percentage of Sousão, Alicante Bouschet as well as Tinta Amarela and Tinta Barroca. CHARACTERISTICS Alcohol: 20% Baumé: 3.6° pH: 3.55<br />Contains sulphites Total acidity 4.55 g/L (tartaric acidity) TASTING NOTES The aromatic profile of this LBV 2018 is typically Graham, revealing blackcurrant and blackberry<br />with secondary notes of dried mint leaves, eucalyptus and a dusting of liquorice. The purity and freshness of the fruit are remarkable and the characteristic floral notes of<br />cistus (a wild flower that thrives in the Douro) also shine through. The rich, succulent black fruit flavours are bright and fresh, complemented by layers of cocoa, black plum<br />and hints of white pepper.<br />
Price
€37.80
