There is a dab of alcohol evident on the 2011 Vintage Port from Royal Oporto, with tobacco and autumn leaf scents infusing the dark berry fruit. With aeration, hints of cedar and smoke emerge. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and plenty of lemongrass-infused black fruit that surround quite a firm structure. The longer this stays in the mouth, the more I warm to its charms. Tasted May 2013.

An herbal, mineral wine, rather lean in character, with flavors of rosemary. The acidity sears through the wine. The elements are almost there, but it will always be austere. ——R.V.(4/1/2011)—— 85

Big, plump and fruity, soft and round. The fruit is ripe, sweet, layering black figs and black, spicy cherries. The wine is a charmer, a pleasure to drink now, but not for aging.——R.V.(12/15/2009)—— 87