# Vallado Touriga Nacional (2019)

- **Producer:** Quinta do Vallado
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Touriga Nacional
- **Region:** Douro, Portugal
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, violet, cedar, cloves, smoke, vanilla, balsamic, graphite, tobacco, liquorice

## About this wine

The Vallado Touriga Nacional 2019 is a single-varietal wine from Quinta do Vallado, a historic estate in Portugal's Douro Valley. Established in 1716 and owned by the same family for six generations, Quinta do Vallado has a deep legacy in the region. While historically known for Port, the estate began producing dry wines in the 1990s. This wine is a testament to the potential of Touriga Nacional, showcasing the grape's characteristics within the unique Douro terroir.

## Interesting facts

- Quinta do Vallado was established in 1716.
- The estate has been in the same family for six generations.
- Touriga Nacional is often called the 'queen' of Portuguese grapes.
- The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and medium-plus body are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in richer meat dishes, preventing the wine from being overpowered. Its fruit concentration and subtle spice notes can echo or contrast with savory herbs and earthy flavors found in these preparations.

## Wine making process

The Vallado Touriga Nacional 2019 is produced from 100% Touriga Nacional grapes. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel vats with controlled temperatures and regular remontage. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an aging process of 16 months in French oak barrels, with 45-50% of these being new. This method is designed to develop the wine's structure and aromatic profile.