Tasting Notes

WA94

The 2010 Touriga Nacional was aged for 16 months in new French oak and bottled in April, 2012. It comes in at 14% alcohol. If you appreciate grace, finesse and harmony, this will be exactly what you want. Despite its subtle opening, this tightened and then showed the ability to evolve constantly in the glass, not becoming truly expressive of the grape for a couple of hours. When I retasted it from a fresh, newly opened bottle a few days later, it was equally impressive for its focus and persistence, while showing gorgeous and classic floral notes and intensity of flavor on the finish. However, it was not until Day 2 when it actually sealed the deal. On Day 2, it was remarkably subtle and graceful on first sip and, yes, a bit compact and restrained. Then, the very fine aromatics expressive of the grape broke through. That was worth the price of admission. The finesse makes it lovely and a pleasure to drink. It is the type of wine that you’ll want more of as your glass empties. It drinks effortlessly, yet it is interesting all the while. It finished with bursts of flavor, slightly tinged by oak at the moment and nicely supported by a well-integrated backbone. Its balance is impeccable. This, along with the Vinha da Ponte, is Crasto’s statement for the vintage. It is quite unevolved at the moment, but it is easy to get to like even now. However, take note: despite its elegant beginning and graceful style, there is a lot going on here. Crasto’s style will not burn your palate out with astringency, but that said, considering the price and availability of this bottling, do yourself a favor and cellar it a few years. Let it become more expressive.

WS93

Exhibits a dark color, with rich aromas and flavors of dried plum, kirsch, mocha- and baker's chocolate, featuring notes of smoked meat. Displays good lift midpalate, with a muscular, well-spiced finish that offers plenty of tannic grip.

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