Sublime 2011 diagonal from Douro, Portugal. History of Casa Ferreirinha Casa Ferreirinha, located in the Douro region of Portugal, has a rich tradition dating back to the 18th century. Its name honors Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, nicknamed "Ferreirinha." In 1952, Fernando Nicolau de Almeida laid the foundation for what would become the iconic Barca Velha. He combined traditional Douro grapes with modern winemaking methods inspired by studies in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Rioja. Since then, leadership has remained within a small circle of technical directors—from Almeida through José Maria Soares Franco to the current oenologist, Luís Sottomayor. Casa Ferreirinha is part of the leading Portuguese winemaking group Sogrape. Region, terroir and climate in the Douro Located in the Douro Superieur, the vineyards are characterized by steep slopes, slate soils, and a complex microclimate. The 2011 harvest experienced a cold, wet winter, followed by a dry spring and a balanced summer. Light rain fell in August and September, ensuring harmonious ripening of the grapes. Grape varieties in the 2011 Barca Velha The blend consists of: 45% Touriga Franca 35% Touriga Nacional 10% Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) 10% Tinto Cão The grapes come from carefully selected plots at Quinta da Leda and Quinta do Sairrão, located in the Cima Corgo at an altitude of approximately 600 metres. Harvest, vinification and aging The grapes are harvested by hand and completely destemmed. This is followed by gentle crushing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks with prolonged skin maceration. The wine then matures for approximately 18 months in French oak barrels, some of which are new, which adds structure and complexity. Color, aroma and taste of the 2011 vintage Colour: Deep ruby red with a bright lustre and minimal deposits, typical of the magnum format. Nose: Intense and layered with notes of blackcurrant, blue plum, red cherry, cedar, tobacco, clove, graphite and subtle vanilla tones from the oak. Palate: Rich and layered, with velvety tannins, refined acidity, and a long, elegant finish. Flavors of ripe fruit, spice, cocoa, leather, and a hint of minerality blend beautifully. Criticism: 97 points (Parker), 96+ (Suckling), 98 (Decanter). Why you want to order this wine The 2011 Casa Ferreirinha Barca Velha Magnum is a paragon of class from the Douro. Thanks to careful grape selection, long oak aging, and an excellent balance of power and elegance, this is a wine for special occasions. Ideal as a gift, for cellaring, or for a grand dinner. Its international acclaim underscores the rarity and quality of this vintage. Would you like to order wines from Casa Ferreirinha online? All our Casa Ferreirinha wines are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. If you're picking up your wine, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address. The full reviews by international wine journalists like Parker, Suckling, and Vinous can be read on the website via the links next to the image. This is a free service for our customers. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers. Recommended wine and food pairings Grilled ribeye with rosemary and garlic: The powerful structure of the wine supports the umami character of the meat. Wild boar stew with plums: The spiciness and dark fruit in the wine enhance the full flavors of the stew. Duck breast with orange-sesame glaze: The acidity and fruity notes give a refined balance to the rich duck. Mushroom risotto with truffle oil: The earthy components complement the wine's maturation notes perfectly. Roasted sea bass with lemon-thyme sauce: The contrast between citrus acidity and the wine's structure creates tension and freshness. Tuna tataki with sesame and soy sauce