Primus Quinta da Pellada 2019

The 2019 Primus Quinta da Pellada is a field blend of about 19 grapes from very old vines (71 years), mostly Encruzado and Bical, all aged for six months in well-used French 400-liter barrels (ranging from two to six years in age). It comes in at 13.1% alcohol. When last seen, this was terrific. It still is. For a wine that seems so bright and elegant, this manages to coat the palate with its almost unctuous texture. It is light, never thin and tastes great. But this is a serious Branco meant for development and aging. It is very fine and likely to develop well, which is important because, to date, there has not been any development. It is very linear right now, but it will come around and become more expressive. Sure, you can drink this now, but that would be a waste. Put it away for a couple of years.