Carm 2014 Grande Reserva Tinto 750ml

The 2014 Grande Reserva is mostly a Touriga Nacional, with 5% Tinta Roriz and 10% Touriga Franca, all aged for 12 months in new French oak. Sourced from vines at an average age of 43 years, this comes in at 14.5% alcohol. This isn't the biggest or deepest Douro Superior tinto, but it is brilliantly structured and has a wonderfully fresh feel. The acidity keeps the wine fresh and lifted, but it is well integrated, not obvious. The power is notable, however, and this is not close to ready. This, admittedly, surprised me a bit. It is very fine in a tough year, although most say Douro Superior, where CARM is, is a bit better than most subregions. Focused, precise and penetrating, this is impressive on the finish, too, ending very dry and serious. For all of the power, it does not lack for finesse. Put it away for a few years and let it be all it can be. It will be interesting to see what the upside is here after it spends a few years in the cellar.

Score: 93 points -- Mark Squires, Robertparker.com, Aug 2017