The 2000 Duas Quintas is part of our vertical. It is a blend of Touriga Nacional (20%), Touriga Francesa (40%) and Tinta Roriz (40%). About half of the juice was aged in used Portuguese oak for six months, the rest in stainless steel. Here's another "regular" Tinto that I had not seen before. It is aging brilliantly. A smoother, more refined version of the 1994 in this vertical, this is on the cusp, showing clear notes of maturity, but not yet being all about the maturity. There is still a sweet tinge of fruit on the end. It is also rich, refined and delicious. Still vibrant, it is a bit tight at times, but the tannins are perhaps better balanced here than on the 1994. It seems generally harmonious, finishing with an elegant, but gripping presentation. It is very fine and surprisingly interesting--another eye-opener in this vertical and a fine competitor for "best of" the regular Tintos. It is not quite as intense as the 1994, but it is far more interesting than the younger ones. It is in a perfect place just now.

Shows plenty of dark fruit aromas and flavors, with notes reminiscent of blueberry pie and black cherries, picking up subtle shadings of black pepper, cinnamon and clove. Chewy yet supple, its long finish is filled with soft tannins.——W.E.(10/1/2004)—— 90