Van Zellers & Co - Curriculum Vitae Douro 2005

Van Zellers & Co - Curriculum Vitae Douro 2005 (91 TSW)

Van Zellers & Co / Quinta Vale D. Maria is one of Portugal's most beautifully preserved treasures, located in the heart of the renowned Douro Valley. The owner, driving force and winemaker Cristiano Van Zeller (also Van Zellers) is one of the greatest ambassadors of the region. We can rightly say that he can be regarded as one of the most prominent and largest winemakers in Portugal. His oenologist Sandra de Silva is in charge of the house. She also belongs to Portugal's wine elite.

His talented daughter Francisca has joined him for several years. Its extensive range of Ports as well as its renowned wines score very high internationally. The red line throughout the range is exceptional finesse. Unique in Portugal. All Van Zeller wines have exceptional storage potential.

Under the Name of The Douro Boys five wineries work together (Quinta Vale D. Maria, Quinta do Vallado, Quinta do Crasto, Quinta do Vale Meão and Niepoort ) to enable the dry wines of the Douro to achieve a degree of recognition appropriate to their inherent quality, and to put them on an equal footing with the Ports.

Quinta Vale D. Maria is the smallest winery of the 5 domaines.

Back to the wine:

The grapes for CV, Curriculum Vitae come from very old vines which from north-facing parcels, around 85 years old, a field blend is produced, foot-trodden before fermentation, 50% in lagares 50% in stainless steel vats. Thereafter the ageing is for 22 months in 75% new French oak, 25% one year old.

My tasting notes:

In the glass a deep inky garnet red color.
On the medium(+) nose aromas of blackberries, cherries and earth with hints of tobacco, dark chocolate, mushrooms and vanilla hints.
On the palate dry, full-bodied with medium acidity and medium well integrated tannins. Full and round mouthfeel with flavours of ripe dark fruits, black pepper, earth and chocolate and a persistent black cherry finish.

Distribution @adbibendum