“The 2009 QUINTA DA VICOSA ‘S.T.’ is, as the S.T. hints, a Syrah / Trincadeira blend, each sourced from different soils (Syrah, limestone; Trincadeira, schist) and then aged for 12 months in French oak barriques. This single vineyard offering changes its blend when appropriate—in one year, for instance, it was a Touriga Nacional / Merlot blend. Very smooth, restrained and a little creamy in texture, there is a hint of olive, a nuance of earthiness lurking underneath and a nice feeling of solidity. There are tannins hiding, too, but they are well integrated and never overly aggressive. This is a seductive bottling that grew on me with time, showing its finesse and fine balance to go with its lingering flavors and becoming bright and lively after the creamy, restrained start. Drink now-2020.”