Casa Ermelinda Freitas, Reserva Touriga Nacional 2017, Vinho Regional Peninsula de Setúbal, Portugal

Tasting Note: When you see Touriga Nacional by itself or as the dominant grape in a blend, try it.

If cabernet sauvignon and Bordeaux lovers knew about this grape, they’d blow off en primeur and gain so much.

Deep intensity ruby in color, this wine has an aromatic, medium-plus-intensity nose of black currant, blackberry, leather, tobacco, black plum and violet blossom.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied Touriga Nacional has medium-plus-intensity, black-fruit-and-leather flavor intensity as suggested on the nose supported by medium acidity and slightly-grippy, medium-plus tannin ultimately completing with a medium-plus finish.

This bottle presents a solid middle-of-the pack version of the grape for a midweek meal.

Bottle Note: Pursuing new sensations in winemaking explains the reason why small productions of varietal wines are now brought to your attention. This wine is a Touriga Nacional varietal which shows the richness and complexity of this red grape variety. Must be served at 16-18°C. Ready to drink or store for maximum 9 years horizontally in a cool and dry place. Leonor Freitas, Proprietress.