1997 Quarles Harris

[Alex Bridgeman]

Deep red, opaque centre with colour into the rim and a surprising orange tinge at the very edge. More intensely coloured that the '98 Senhora da Ribeira tasted along side. Intensely fruity nose of pure blackcurrants. Soft and silky into the mouth, a touch hollow immediately but then wonderful midpalate development. Acidic structure with terrific fruit around it. Enourmous aftertaste of sweet, sticky chocolate. Tannins help the acidic structure, but are not aggressive and fade away quickly. 89/100. Drunk 2/11/06 after 1 hour in the decanter.