Quinta do Noval Touriga Nacional 2021

Quinta do Noval Touriga Nacional is a single variety red from the renowned Douro estate, made wholly from Touriga Nacional, the country's most prized grape. The vines grow on the steep schist terraces of the Douro Valley, where the slate like rock drains freely, stores heat and forces the roots deep, while altitude brings cool nights that lock in colour and aroma. Touriga Nacional is naturally dark, floral and structured, and here it is given a focused, varietal treatment rather than the blending it sees in port. After fermentation the wine ages for 12 months in 225 litre French oak barrels, the wood rounding the tannins through slow oxidation and adding gentle spice. The colour is deep and concentrated. The nose is intense, with blackberry and dark plum lifted by rose petal, black pepper and liquorice. The palate is full and structured, with firm tannins, bright acidity and a long, mineral finish that reflects the schist. It is built to age and gains complexity in the cellar. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It is a fine match for roast and grilled red meats.