2012 Quinta da Revolta

[Altrurian]

Purchased at Tech Hut (sic), Rua Catarina 606, Porto, for €34.95

There is no passage of light at the wine’s center, but more than a smidgen of clarity at its rim. Discernible color is limited to a uniform deep red. Cathedral windows fall rather quickly into picturesque ruin.

It could be that the want of viscosity and narrowness of palette influences a perception of simplicity in flavor. But this is far from saying the wine doesn’t bear analysis. There is a whisper of tartness to it. A strawberry-like sweetness is there, to be sure (but nothing luxuriant). A soupçon of alcoholic heat rears up at the end (but one keeps hoping for more).

[Note: On the second day, there is a certain pleasurable complication in flavor, expressing itself as bitter chocolate. Hear, hear!]

As I continue delving into corner-store vintage ports, I have to say this one heightens my opinion of the 2008 Quinta do Crasto of a few days ago. Whether this is a function of the wine’s relative age, or some other aspect of its manufacture and being, I am too much of a neophyte to pronounce. Regardless, I want to give this wine its due. It is a boon companion of an afternoon—make that two afternoons!—and that counts for a lot.

[MigSU]

Wait, Tech Hut in Rua de Santa Catarina? Isn't that a phone repair shop? They sell wine as well?

[Altrurian]

They do indeed! And you’re right, “Reparaçao de Telemóveis” it says on their card. With this purchase, I might have exhausted their stock of vintage ports, but a fair selection of tawnies and rubies remains.