Alves de Sousa, ‘Vale da Raposa’ Touriga Nacional, 2017, Douro (DOC)

'One-Liner'
A poised and aromatic expression of Touriga Nacional, bringing together ripe blackberry and plum with orange blossom, savoury herbs and the firm, mineral freshness of the Douro.

Tasting Note
Deep ruby in colour, with fragrant orange blossom giving lift to ripe plum, blackberry and dark cherry, followed by subtle balsamic herbs, pepper and a touch of cocoa. The palate is concentrated yet remarkably composed, balancing juicy dark fruit with fresh acidity, finely shaped tannins and a gentle mineral grip. Savoury and elegant through the finish, with the fruit lingering alongside softly warming spice.

Country: Portugal
Region: Douro DOC
Sub-Region: Baixo Corgo
Grape(s): 100% Touriga Nacional
ABV: 14.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian

Awards & Critics' Scores
92 Points – Falstaff

The Story
The Alves de Sousa family has worked among the steep vineyards of the Douro for five generations, although for much of that time its grapes and wines were destined for the region’s established Port houses. Domingos Alves de Sousa changed direction after taking responsibility for the family estates in 1987, releasing his first wine under the family name in the early 1990s and helping to demonstrate the quality of the Douro’s unfortified reds. Quinta do Vale da Raposa comprises approximately 18 hectares beside Quinta da Gaivosa in the Baixo Corgo, and its range includes a collection of single-variety wines created to show the individual character of traditional Douro grapes. Here, Touriga Nacional’s naturally floral, dark-fruited personality is given further depth through 13 months in seasoned French oak, preserving freshness while adding gentle texture and savoury complexity.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Spanish-Style Pork Shoulder with Smoked Paprika, Roast Peppers and Crispy Potatoes
- Vegetarian: Puy lentil, caramelised onion and thyme tart
- Vegan: Porcini, borlotti bean and rosemary ragù with soft polenta