Two Portuguese

2004 Real Compania Vehla, Grandjo Late Harvest, Douro;
Golden, botrytis, vanilla, some muscat, honney and apricots, peach and tropical, quite Sauternes-like, but with a sweeter touch. Acidity could be higher and fresher, but, hey, this is Douro, slightly bitter and burnt almonds in finish, sweet feel. This semillon is not a Sauternes, it's too sweet for that, and also lacks the acidity, but to have this freshness on a semillon out of Douro is impressive. 84

1987 Quinta do Cotto;
My father likes to experiment. Likes to see how different wines evolve. I love it. Therefore I have the possibility to try many different wines that is not at hand, especially if older. Sometimes he ages them a bit to long, and that is actually to our benefit as well, then we can se what it becomes. This was one of those bottles, bright ruby with a broad brick rim. Metallic, stable, boiled plums and prunes. Thin, simple and acidic. 58