Wines Douro Quinta do Crasto - Touriga Franca - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The 2018 Quinta do Crasto Cuvée Touriga Franca is a captivating red wine from the renowned Douro DOC region in Portugal. This wine is primarily made from the Touriga Franca grape, a variety celebrated for its deep colour and aromatic complexity. The 2018 vintage benefited from favourable weather conditions, allowing the grapes to ripen evenly, which results in a wine rich in concentrated flavours. The terroir of the Douro Valley, where the vineyards are terraced on steep schist slopes along the Douro River, imparts distinct minerality and intensity to the wine. Traditional vinification methods, combined with modern techniques, bring out the full potential of the Touriga Franca grape.

The Douro region, one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the world, is characterized by its hot, dry climate and diverse soils, particularly schist and granite. Its long history of winemaking is evident in the quality and prestige of its wines. Known primarily for producing port, the Douro Valley has also gained recognition for its robust and aromatic dry red wines, such as this Quinta do Crasto.

For an ideal pairing, consider serving this robust and aromatic red wine with hearty dishes. The wine's rich fruit and floral notes complement grilled meats, such as lamb chops or beef steak. Traditional Portuguese dishes like feijoada (a hearty bean and pork stew) or cozido à portuguesa (a meat and vegetable stew) also create a harmonious pairing. For cheese lovers, a selection of hard cheeses like aged Manchego or a Portuguese Queijo da Serra will beautifully match the wine's tannic structure.

To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2018 Quinta do Crasto Cuvée Touriga Franca, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. This allows the wine’s complex flavours and aromas to unfold, offering a rewarding and immersive tasting experience.