What's your favorite DOC Douro Wine in 1st half of 2009?

[Roy Hersh]

I will keep this as a "sticky" topic all month, meaning it will stay at the very top of the Douro Wine Forum.

You may choose just one, or put together a short list of your faves so far. Given that the whole month of June is part of the first half of 2009, this will remain in place until then.

I think it would be great to see which you've enjoyed the most. I know that some folks will include bottlings from our FTLOP Gala weekend from late Jan. of this year, but I'd also encourage those of you who were not there to include Douro wines you've had too.

These can fit into either of two categories "best overall quality" or "best overall value" Douro Wines and it would be appreciated if you would let other board members know which category you feel the wines you mention should fit into.

[Adam F]

Probably a Casa de Casal de Loivos 2005 followed by a Crasto Reserva 2005. Tried a Passdouro 2005 but I think it needs a little longer.

[Andy Velebil]

Not many replies Come on folks there is more than just Port from the Douro...ok I best go put my flack jacket on now

For me the top spot currently is the 2007 Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte. Just a stunning wine and oh so young. when I didn't think Crasto could out do themselves with this already top caliber wine, they come up with this one.

A very close second is the 2004 Quinta do Noval Touriga Nacional. I didn't even know they made this until a couple of weeks ago. Normally single varietal dry wines don't quite hit that super high score level for me as they don't have that extra complexity to propel them, but this was an exception. I fell in love with this from the first glass...and luckily had many more.