TN: 2003 Quinta do Crasto Touriga Nacional Douro red

[Rune EG]

Purchased two bottles at auction arranged by the Norwegian State Wine Monopoly August this year.
Decanted 3.5 hrs. Dark red colour with a light rim and touch of brown. Lovely aroma with combination of oak, minerals and fruit. Full body. In the taste the power is there, but in a subdued way. Quite smooth but also with distinct tannins. Acidity and structure are OK, but unfortunately for this bottle the fruit is about to fade. A bit dry towards the end. Long aftertaste. The other bottle is also 16 years old and will be consumed soon. 90 pts.

[David Spriggs]

Thanks for the note! I had some. I believe I drank the last bottle a year ago, but I could be wrong. I will definitely check to see if I have one and drink it. Thanks!

[Andy Velebil]

Over the years, with some exceptions, most single varietal TN wines haven’t held up for the long term like blends have. I’ve come to the conclusion that the big push for TN as the “head” grape in the Douro was/is misplaced. The Douro really shines with blends, even if only a blend of two grapes.

Of course, speaking generally as there are exceptions from time to time.

[David Spriggs]

I guess we can differ as to the reason that this bottled is more advanced than usual. I attribute it's condition to the hot year, not that it is a single varietal. I have recently had the 2001 and the 2004 Crasto Touriga Nacional and they are remarkably youthful. No reason to drink up those! I will agree that if you add Tinta Roriz to Touriga Nacional it will generally last longer. But that is because of Tinta Roriz's tannin and acid that act as a preservative.