You may not realize that there are some great dry red wines coming from Portugal’s Douro region, a place famed for its fortified Porto. I’ve gotten to taste several and found them quite satisfying. Now imagine my surprise in finding one I like even better that comes from an unexpected source – Paso Robles’ new Adelaida District sub-appellation. An amazingly complex blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao and Souzao, it features vibrant cherry, vanilla, anise, blackberry and sweet tobacco aromas and flavors, followed by a blooming finish that intensifies the flavors and lingers with intrigue. Great acidity keeps it all singing. A spectacular start to tasting at the 2017 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition. This wine was awarded a Platinum medal.
PasoPort Wine Company, Adelaida District (Paso Robles, California) 2013
By Rich Cook