This wine is a co-fermented blend of Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Cão and Tinta Francisca that is vinified in granite lagares (open top fermenters that are just over knee deep), where it is foot trodden with indigenous yeast, and then aged in concrete vats and neutral oak. It’s quite savory on the nose, and that meaty character carries through on the palate with blackberry, gentle pepper and a little bay leaf. A supple grip keeps the flavors together through a long finish that maintains the savory character nicely. There are plenty of pairing possibilities here — it will work great with surf and turf — and the low 13% alcohol will keep it moving through the meal. Another Portuguese red that over delivers value.
Quinta Dos Murças, Douro DOC (Portugal) 2018
By Rich Cook