CORTES DE CIMA INCOGNITO - 2002

Cortes de Cima is one of Portugal's leading wineries. If you have not tasted non-Port red wines from Portugal, then you are missing out on some of the most intriguing wines on the planet.

I really believe in these new world wines and am convinced that they will break out in the near future. The concentration, complexity, richness and seductive characteristics of these reds stand out from what every other country in the world is producing. Pinot Noir grown in Burgundy may be replicated in Oregon. California Meritages may imitate Bordeaux wines, but nothing produced outside of Portugal tastes like these reds. They are tremendously unique.

TASTING NOTES:

Approaching cult status, the Incognito is a Syrah varietal with a purple hue so deep and saturated that even Prince would be envious. Lush red berries on the nose are followed by waves of creamy vanilla oak on the tongue. The mid-palate is full of rich cherry cola and fresh ground cinnamon and the finish goes on for a good 10 seconds.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

92 PTS
This is a phenomenal Syrah with incredible intensity, purity and concentration of fruit. Magnificient, with sediment and chewy tannins. The 15% alcohol is so well integrated that it is nearly undetectable. About $33 per bottle and worth it!