2009 Cedro do Noval (Douro)

50% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Franca, 10% Syrah and 10% Tinta Roriz. It is Duriense instead of Douro because of the Syrah. In Noval’s lineup, this is quickly becoming the one to grab, because the quality is high and the price is low. It is becoming a repetitive overachiever. Tightly wound, crisp and earthy, it is beautifully wrought and quite ageworthy. Juicy and remarkably flavorful on the finish, thanks to the acidity, it is a fine achievement at this price level and one of the better values in the vintage. The only problem for Noval is that many will wonder why they should trade up to the winery’s prestige wines at several times the Cedro’s price. There isn’t much question about one thing, however—this is a fine value, a big, relatively deep and powerful Cedro that doesn’t disappoint. 92 points