Vineyard and winemaking
Vinha Centenária Ref. P28/P21 brings together two contrasting parcels at Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo. Parcela 28 is planted with Tinta Roriz at around 205 to 210 metres above sea level on a steep, schist-rich slope, while Parcela 21 is a century-old field blend containing a remarkable diversity of traditional red and white Douro varieties.
The parcels were harvested and vinified to retain their individual character before being united, with maturation in French oak providing polish without obscuring the wine's mineral core. In the 2018 vintage, the firm, savoury identity of P28 is given greater aromatic breadth and complexity by the old vines of P21.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Dense garnet-red, beginning to show a subtle brick tint at the rim.
Nose
Blueberry, damson and dried black cherry lead into black pepper, tobacco leaf, cedar and cool graphite, with earthy and balsamic detail emerging in the glass.
Palate
Structured and concentrated, with dark plum and blue fruit held by firm, fine-grained tannins. Tinta Roriz gives the wine its upright, savoury shape, while the century-old field blend adds layers of spice, dried flowers and woodland complexity. The finish is long, dry and distinctly mineral. At this stage of development, bottles may vary; stand upright before opening and pour carefully, decanting only after tasting.
Food pairing
A natural match for slow-braised ox cheek, roast venison with juniper, lamb neck with rosemary, or a mushroom and walnut pie. Its savoury depth also works well with mature hard cheeses such as Montgomery's Cheddar.
Background story
Between 1979 and 1981, Quinta Nova took part in pioneering studies of single-variety Douro plantings carried out with the Portuguese Ministry of Agriculture. That work helped reveal the individual behaviour of important regional grapes and underpins the estate's continuing focus on its 41 distinct vineyard parcels.
Reference P28/P21 revisits that legacy by combining the Tinta Roriz of P28 with the extraordinary genetic and cultural heritage of P21, whose old vines comprise dozens of interplanted varieties. Produced in very limited quantities, it is a precise, mature expression of two parcels rather than a conventional regional blend.
