Quinta do Noval, Douro (Portugal) Touriga Nacional 2011

Touriga Nacional, the most prized grape for Port, is also the most prized grape for Portugal’s dry red wines. Quinta do Noval’s bottling of their dry wine is as exemplary as their Port. This is an elegant and racy wine, a true thoroughbred.  Young and vigorous, it delivers intriguing spice.  It dazzles with its elegance, length and balance, not surprising given the stature of the 2011 vintage in the Douro.  Frankly, I’d cellar it for a few years, but if you’re set on drinking it sooner, decant it a few hours in advance and serve it with a robust dish.