Quinta do Crasto Touriga Nacional 2016

The 2016 Touriga Nacional was aged for 16 to 18 months, depending on plot, in 90% new, light-toast French oak. It is sourced from two different vineyards plots, one with southern exposure and the other north-facing, averaging 35 years in vine age. The two plots were fermented separately. It comes in at 13.5% alcohol, a decline from the 2015. Overall, this seems every bit its equal, probably its superior. Tight and aromatic, this throws off big blue-fruit aromas and flavors turning to a bit of blackberry on the end. Bright, silky and very focused, this precise Touriga has superb structure, a certain sexy demeanor despite its elegance and plenty of finesse. When all is said and done, this is likely to be one of Crasto's finest Tourigas. Maybe the 2015 will overtake it. Maybe not. I'm still a little wary—this 2016 was only in bottle about 90 days when seen and is very unevolved. I'm leaning up for the moment, though, as the combination of elegance and sex appeal makes this seem very special just now.

A beautifully crafted red that offers both concentration and elegance, with violet, kirsch and red plum reduction notes supported by nicely sculpted tannins. Ample flavors of clove, olive, mineral and black tea envelope the sandalwood-laced finish. Drink now through 2028. 75 cases imported.

Dark ruby, purple reflections, subtle bright rim. Underlay of fresh spices, black berry fruit, fine slate savouriness, subtle hints of liquorice, cassis in the background, a multi-faceted bouquet. Juicy, elegant, very good freshness, fine tannins, pronounced fruit on the finish. It is already drinking well and has excellent aging potential.

Deepest crimson with some purple at the rim. Entwined aromas of dark fruit and Touriga's lovely – but not excessive – floral character. A touch of oak's sweet spice. On the palate, quite oaky but the fruit and violets characteristics come through. Velvet-like tannins and good freshness to finish. 

This wine completes a trio of single-varietal wines, showcasing the top grapes of the Douro. This perfumed, ripe and stylish wine is rich with black fruits, while also stylishly restrained. It is just approaching its peak, but will certainly age well. Drink now, but better wait until 2021.

Dried violets, walnut husk, dark chocolate and hint of dried chili. It’s medium-to full-bodied with sleek tannins and good acidity. Fresh blackberries and layers of chocolate and spice. Lots of new wood at the end. Better in 2022.

From two parcels at 300m, averaging 33 years old, one facing south-east, the other, north-west. Pronounced freshness and the lowest alcohol to date capture the vintage. Concentrated, polished raspberry and blackberry fruit cleaves to a chassis of fine, sinewy tannins - a great platform for ageing. Hints of orange blossom emerge, imprinting varietal signature. Just starting to unfurl. Aged 18 months in French oak (90% new, very light toast).